NEW DELHI: The ministry of civil aviation on Friday issued fresh directives to airlines, with a special focus on IndiGo, asking them to immediately implement measures to resolve large-scale disruptions and restore services at the earliest.According to the order, flight schedules are expected to begin stabilising by midnight, and full operational normalcy is likely to be restored over the next couple of days. The ministry said passengers can monitor delays from home through information systems installed by IndiGo and other carriers. In case of cancellations, the order mandates IndiGo to ensure automatic full refunds.The ministry added that stranded passengers will be accommodated in hotels booked by airlines, while refreshments and essential support will be provided to those facing delays. “Special measures have been taken to ensure senior citizens are not discomfited in any manner. They will be provided with lounge access,” the order stated. A 24×7 control room at the aviation ministry is overseeing the situation on a real-time basis.The government said it remains fully alert to the inconvenience faced by air travellers and is holding continuous discussions with all stakeholders. “Every possible measure, including rule exemptions as announced by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation on Friday, will be taken to restore schedules and ensure stability to mitigate the public’s woes,” the statement added. Earlier in the day, the DGCA granted IndiGo a one-time temporary exemption to stabilise flight operations, easing limits related to night duty and night operations for its A320 fleet until February 10, 2026. The regulator emphasised that while the operator is responsible for the inconvenience, the exemption has been allowed “in the public interest” to ensure continuity of essential services, and may be revoked if safety is compromised.
Govt outlines passenger support measures as schedules near normalisation
- Flight schedules are expected to stabilise and start returning to normal by midnight.
- Full services and operational stability should resume over the next couple of days.
- Passengers can track any delays from home through systems installed by IndiGo and other airlines.
- IndiGo will issue automatic full refunds in case of flight cancellations.
- Stranded passengers will be accommodated in hotels arranged by the airlines.
- Senior citizens will receive special assistance, including access to airport lounges.
- Refreshments and essential support will be provided to passengers facing delays.
- A 24×7 control room at the civil aviation ministry is monitoring the situation in real time.
