Supreme Court flags ‘serious concern’ over IndiGo flight chaos

New Delhi, Dec 8: The Supreme Court on Monday voiced concern over widespread disruptions caused by IndiGo flight cancellations and delays, noting that thousands of passengers remain stranded at airports across the country.

According to Bar & Bench, a bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, sitting with Justice Joymalya Bagchi, said the situation had affected many travellers, including those with health complications.

“It is a serious matter. Lakhs of people are stranded at airports. We know the Government of India has taken timely action and cognizance of the issue. People may have health issues,” CJI Kant said.

The comments came after a lawyer sought urgent listing of a petition alleging that IndiGo was operating with significant staff shortages, leading to severe passenger inconvenience.

The counsel also claimed travellers were not being adequately informed about delays and cancellations.

However, the court did not order immediate listing, indicating the matter would come up in due course.

A similar plea is pending before the Delhi High Court, where petitioners have sought refunds and emergency relief for affected passengers.

“Ground situation at airports is inhumane… there is no proper refund,” counsel submitted.

A Bench of Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela agreed to hear the matter on Wednesday, noting that the government has already issued certain directives.

The ongoing crisis at IndiGo stems from a severe pilot shortage and delays in implementing the new Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has granted temporary exemptions to the airline, but large-scale cancellations continue to disrupt operations at major airports nationwide.