Centre Orders IndiGo to Normalise Flights in 48 Hours as Fare Caps Come Into Force

—Govt Caps Airfares, Gives IndiGo 48 Hours to Restore Normal Operations

New Delhi: In a strong move to tackle the ongoing aviation crisis, the central government on Saturday directed IndiGo to normalise its operations within two days after passengers across major airports faced mass flight cancellations and unusually high ticket prices.

The civil aviation ministry also capped domestic airfares, restricting airlines from charging exorbitant rates that, in some cases, had surged up to ₹18,000 on short routes due to sudden flight disruptions.

Along with the fare cap, the ministry instructed airlines to process refunds by 8 PM and ensure that stranded passengers receive their luggage within 48 hours, aiming to reduce the growing frustration among travelers.

Passengers Face Chaos Across AirportsLarge crowds were seen at airports in Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi, where worried passengers grappled with long delays, missing baggage, and abrupt cancellations.

At Mumbai Airport, tempers ran high as stranded flyers entered into heated arguments with airline staff. In a separate incident, an IndiGo ground employee was allegedly assaulted at a remote bay, highlighting the growing tension.

Govt Calls IndiGo CEO for Urgent MeetingThe aviation ministry summoned IndiGo’s CEO, Pieter Elbers, to Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan for an urgent briefing.

Officials expressed concern over the airline’s struggle to restore services after significant disruptions reportedly caused by internal staff shortages and operational lapses.

What Happens NextThe government has made it clear that strict action will follow if airlines fail to normalise services and comply with passenger-friendly measures.

IndiGo, India’s largest airline, now faces a tight deadline to bring operations back on track and regain public trust.-