THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
New Delhi, Dec 10: Taking serious note of IndiGo’s escalating operational troubles, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has summoned the airline’s CEO once again. The regulator has sought a detailed report on the ongoing flight disruptions, crew shortages, and passenger grievances.
CEO Pieter Elbers has been directed to appear at the DGCA headquarters at 3 pm on December 11, along with senior officials from all key departments.
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court on Wednesday expressed sharp displeasure over the ongoing IndiGo crisis while hearing a PIL seeking a judicial inquiry and compensation for affected passengers.
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The court asked the Centre to clarify who is responsible for such a massive breakdown, noting that more than 4,600 IndiGo flights have been cancelled over the past nine days. It observed that the disruptions have not only inconvenienced passengers but also impacted the economy.
The High Court questioned why the government failed to ensure timely implementation of guidelines related to pilots’ duty hours.
It also criticised the steep rise in airfares during the crisis, asking how tickets priced at ₹4,000–₹5,000 were allowed to soar to ₹30,000–₹40,000. The court questioned how other airlines could be permitted to take advantage of the situation.
In response, ASG Chetan Sharma informed the court that the government has imposed a strict fare cap and that this is the first time the Civil Aviation Ministry has intervened directly on pricing. He added that action is underway and confirmed that IndiGo’s COO has been suspended.
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The High Court directed IndiGo, the Centre, and the DGCA to ensure that stranded passengers receive appropriate compensation. It also criticised the petitioner for filing the PIL with incomplete preparation but said it would still take cognisance in the public interest.
