Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai: IndiGo Flight Cancellations Hit Record High – Thousands Left Stranded as Airline Struggles to Recover, Here Is The Latest Update

Published on December 10, 2025

IndiGo’s ongoing flight disruptions have entered their ninth day, affecting thousands of passengers across the country. With over 4,600 cancellations since the issue began on December 2, the Indian airline’s operations remain severely impacted despite assurances from the airline. The Indian government has stepped in to curtail IndiGo’s daily operations by 10%, aiming to control the crisis and minimize further disruption. Passengers continue to face inconvenience, with several airports including Delhi, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad among the most affected.

The Ongoing IndiGo Crisis: More Cancellations and Delays

What initially appeared to be a short-term operational challenge for IndiGo has now evolved into a week-long crisis that is disrupting travel plans for thousands of passengers. As of Wednesday, December 10, disruptions continued, with over 60 fresh cancellations at Bengaluru International Airport alone. The ongoing turbulence has hit travelers hard, with more than 40,000 passengers affected by the widespread cancellations across various airports in the country.

Since the crisis started on December 2, IndiGo has faced a massive backlog of canceled flights. The daily cancellations reached staggering numbers as the airline was unable to recover from the initial wave of disruptions. The breakdown of cancellations is as follows:

• Tuesday, Dec 2: 150 cancellations
• Wednesday, Dec 3: 200 cancellations
• Thursday, Dec 4: 300 cancellations
• Friday, Dec 5: 1,600 cancellations
• Saturday, Dec 6: 850 cancellations
• Sunday, Dec 7: 650 cancellations
• Monday, Dec 8: 500 cancellations
• Tuesday, Dec 9: 400 cancellations

This has resulted in severe inconvenience for travelers, particularly at major hubs like Delhi and Bengaluru, where passengers have been left stranded for hours or even days.

Government Action: Curtailing IndiGo’s Operations

In response to the crisis, the Indian government has intervened, ordering IndiGo to reduce its flight operations by 10%. This directive, issued by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, is a more severe version of an earlier order requiring a 5% cut in the airline’s winter schedule. The government attributed the prolonged disruptions to internal mismanagement within IndiGo, which has been struggling to manage its flight schedules effectively.

To mitigate the impact, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has directed IndiGo to submit a revised flight schedule by December 10. The new schedule will aim to minimize further disruptions, although many passengers remain skeptical about the airline’s ability to meet these expectations.

Stranded Passengers and Flight Delays

The disruptions have not only affected passengers’ schedules but have also led to an intense struggle at several major airports. At Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai airports, passengers have been seen waiting for extended periods as flights continue to be delayed or canceled. The inconvenience has been especially challenging for families, business travelers, and tourists, with no clear resolution in sight.

Additionally, passengers at Mumbai airport have been severely affected, with over 40,000 travelers hit by delays and cancellations. Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) reported that from December 1 to December 8, 905 flights were canceled, and over 266,000 passengers experienced delays, causing immense strain on the airport’s operations.

IndiGo’s Reassurances: Are Operations Returning to Normal?

IndiGo has repeatedly assured the public that its operations are stabilizing. However, the evidence on the ground suggests that the airline has yet to regain full operational stability. Despite a temporary pause on flight cancellations, the airline is still grappling with the fallout of the previous disruptions, which have caused significant damage to its reputation and passenger trust.

Furthermore, civil aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu stressed the need for more airlines to enter the market to create a more competitive aviation system. The minister emphasized that having multiple operators would ensure fair access to airport capacity and help maintain better connectivity across India.

Impact on Business and Tourism Travel

For business travelers, the ongoing disruptions have caused significant inconvenience, particularly in the wake of important meetings and conferences scheduled during the holiday season. With flights canceled and rescheduled, many professionals have had to adjust their travel plans, which has also affected companies relying on these travel schedules for their operations.

Tourists visiting India have faced similar disruptions, with holiday travel plans thrown into disarray. Popular tourist destinations like Goa, Kerala, and Jaipur, often frequented by international tourists, have also felt the impact as flights to and from these cities were affected by IndiGo’s scheduling issues.

Quick Tips for Affected Passengers

If you are an IndiGo passenger facing disruptions, here are some tips to navigate the crisis:

1. Stay Informed: Regularly check IndiGo’s website or app for real-time flight updates. Additionally, follow airport social media accounts for any announcements related to your flight.
2. Check Alternative Flights: If your flight is canceled, check for available seats on other airlines or consider taking trains or buses for intercity travel.
3. Contact Customer Service: If you are stuck in a location with no clear resolution, contact IndiGo’s customer service for rebooking options or compensation.
4. Be Prepared for Delays: Bring essential items such as water, snacks, and chargers, as you may be waiting for extended periods in the airport.
5. Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights as a passenger, including compensation for canceled or delayed flights. Check the DGCA and IndiGo websites for more details.

The Way Forward: Will IndiGo Recover?

While IndiGo’s management has promised recovery, the airline faces a considerable challenge in rebuilding trust among passengers. The government’s intervention signals serious concerns over IndiGo’s operational efficiency, and the future of the airline will depend on its ability to resolve the current crisis.

For passengers, there’s a chance to seek compensation and stay proactive in case of further delays. However, with the ongoing efforts to stabilize operations, many are hopeful that the worst is behind them.

Conclusion: Navigating the Chaos

IndiGo’s flight disruption crisis has reached an unprecedented scale, affecting thousands of passengers across the country. While the airline continues to assure passengers of returning normalcy, the reality on the ground suggests that the airline has yet to fully recover. With the government’s intervention, hopes remain high for improvements in IndiGo’s operations. Passengers are advised to stay updated on their flight status and be prepared for potential delays as the airline works to stabilize its operations.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated