Indian Aviation Regulator Eases Pilot Rules Amid IndiGo Flight Disruptions
BENGALURU – India’s civil aviation regulator relaxed rules concerning pilot leave and night duty on Friday, a move directly responding too ongoing disruptions at IndiGo, the nation’s largest airline.The changes aim to alleviate a staffing shortage that has led to hundreds of flight cancellations in recent days.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) adjustments come as IndiGo grapples with a important operational crisis. The airline has been forced to cancel numerous flights, leaving passengers stranded and raising concerns about the stability of India’s air travel network. The regulator’s decision reflects the urgent need to address the immediate challenges faced by IndiGo while ensuring pilot fatigue remains a priority.
The specific rule changes allow for greater flexibility in pilot scheduling, addressing the airline’s reported difficulties in maintaining adequate crew levels. While details of the relaxed regulations were not instantly disclosed, the DGCA indicated the adjustments are temporary and intended to stabilize flight operations.
IndiGo has not publicly commented on the specific impact of the rule changes, but the airline acknowledged the ongoing staffing challenges contributing to the cancellations. The disruptions are impacting domestic travel across India, especially during a peak season for both business and leisure travelers. The DGCA’s intervention signals a willingness to work with airlines to mitigate disruptions,while upholding safety standards.
