Delhi HC Slams Centre Over IndiGo Chaos, Orders to Compensate Passengers

The Delhi High Court has sharply criticised the Union government for failing to prevent the large-scale disruption caused by widespread cancellations and delays of IndiGo flights, questioning why authorities allowed the situation to deteriorate before intervening.

 

A Division Bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela said the government appeared to have acted only after the aviation crisis spiralled, leaving thousands of passengers stranded across airports. “Why did you allow all this to happen? Are you helpless?” the Bench asked, expressing concern over the impact on both the public and the national economy.

 

In its order, the Court stated its “anguish” at how the situation had been permitted to “precipitate”, noting that the chaos affected not only passengers but also economic activity dependent on smooth air travel. The Bench directed IndiGo to fully comply with all DGCA rules on delays and cancellations, including mandatory compensation and facilities. It further instructed the Ministry of Civil Aviation and DGCA to ensure strict enforcement.

 

The Court also emphasised that airlines must compensate not only for cancellations but also for the “agony and distress” faced by passengers left unattended or confronted by uncooperative staff. It said it would examine whether compensation beyond existing DGCA circulars was warranted.

 

IndiGo has been battling severe operational disruption due to a shortage of pilots and delays in implementing the new Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL). While the DGCA granted a temporary exemption to help the airline stabilise operations, the Court noted that corrective measures were being taken “only after the crisis erupted”.

 

During the hearing of a PIL seeking a judicial inquiry into the crisis, the Bench grilled both the airline and the government. It asked the Centre to clarify what action it had taken to prevent the situation, why FDTL norms were not enforced on time, and what powers it intended to invoke against non-compliant airlines. The Court also questioned how airfare surged to ₹30,000–₹40,000 during the disruption.

 

The Additional Solicitor General said a high-level inquiry was underway and that provisions for imposing fines and even suspension existed under the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam. However, the Court noted that many government steps came only after passengers were already stranded.

 

While acknowledging deficiencies in the PIL’s preparation, the Court said it was taking cognisance in the larger public interest. It directed that the inquiry report be submitted in a sealed cover if completed before the next hearing.

 

The matter will be heard again on January 22, 2026.

 

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