Operations at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Chandigarh remained disrupted for the third consecutive day on Thursday as IndiGo struggled to manage a growing shortage of crew and multiple operational hurdles across its network. By 9 a.m., at least five departing flights and two incoming flights were delayed or affected, leaving early-morning passengers stuck in long queues and uncertainty.
Morning Rush Turns Stressful for Passengers
Travellers arriving at the airport early in the day complained of repeated delays, sudden schedule changes and poor communication. Many said they had reached the airport before dawn, only to find out that flights had been pushed back indefinitely.
This situation comes at a time when IndiGo—India’s largest airline—has been battling widespread disruption. On Wednesday alone, it cancelled more than 100 flights across major airports, while several dozen more were delayed, creating chaos from Delhi to Bengaluru.
DGCA Seeks Explanation From IndiGo
In response to the ongoing crisis, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an investigation. The aviation regulator has asked IndiGo to submit a detailed report outlining:
- The exact reasons behind the disruptions
- Steps being taken to stabilise operations
- Plans to reduce cancellations and delays in the coming days
Officials said the regulator is closely monitoring the situation, especially since the airline operates nearly 2,300 flights every day, both domestic and international.
Airline Cites Multiple Operational Challenges
IndiGo acknowledged the crisis, apologising to passengers and admitting that a “multitude of unforeseen operational challenges” had hit its network over the past 48 hours. According to the airline, the disruptions are the result of:
- Minor technology glitches
- Winter schedule adjustments
- Adverse weather in several regions
- Increased air traffic congestion
- New crew rostering rules (Flight Duty Time Limitations) that have restricted staff availability
A spokesperson said these issues created a compounding impact, making it impossible for the airline to anticipate or prevent large-scale delays.
Thousands of Passengers Affected Nationwide
Social media is filled with videos from frustrated passengers arguing with airline staff, waiting for updates, or sitting for hours in crowded terminal halls. Several passengers said they missed important meetings, connecting flights, and family events due to the sudden cancellations.
According to initial data:
- 258 flights were cancelled due to airport or airspace restrictions
- 92 flights were cancelled following an ATC (Air Traffic Control) system failure
- 127 flights were cancelled due to other operational reasons
What Lies Ahead?
Sources said the airline has already initiated calibrated flight rescheduling, which includes selective cancellations to ease pressure on its strained crew roster. The next 48 hours will be crucial as IndiGo attempts to restore normalcy across its network.
For now, passengers travelling from Chandigarh Airport are advised to:
- Check their flight status frequently
- Reach out to the airline before heading to the airport
- Expect delays due to ongoing congestion
With the holiday and winter travel season nearing its peak, the aviation sector will be under added pressure to prevent further disruption.