IndiGo Appoints Chief Aviation Advisors LLC to Conduct Independent Review of Flight Disruptions, Update You Need to Know

Published on December 14, 2025

In a strategic move aimed at addressing recent operational disruptions, IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has appointed Chief Aviation Advisors LLC, led by Captain John Illson, to conduct an independent root cause analysis. The decision was approved by IndiGo’s Board on December 12, 2025, following recommendations from the airline’s Crisis Management Group (CMG). This step is a part of IndiGo’s ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen its standing in the aviation industry.

Captain John Illson Brings Over Four Decades of Expertise to IndiGo

Captain John Illson, the seasoned aviation expert leading the Chief Aviation Advisors LLC, brings a wealth of knowledge to the project. With over 40 years of experience in aviation, Captain Illson has an extensive background working with major global carriers and regulatory bodies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). His expertise spans across global aviation strategy, safety leadership and setting international standards, making him an ideal candidate for the review.

Captain Illson’s deep experience in the aviation industry also includes working on the development of new aircraft technologies, ensuring that the review will be grounded in the most up-to-date and industry-recognized practices. This independent assessment of IndiGo’s operations is expected to yield valuable insights, not only into the specific issues causing recent disruptions but also into the broader scope of operational processes that can be improved within the airline.

A Comprehensive Review to Address Operational Challenges

IndiGo’s recent operational challenges, which led to massive flight disruptions, prompted the airline’s Board to commission an independent review. The airline’s Crisis Management Group (CMG), which was formed to address these disruptions, recommended bringing in an external expert to analyze the situation comprehensively. This recommendation was approved by IndiGo’s Board, underscoring the airline’s commitment to transparency and operational excellence.

The review will focus on identifying the root causes of the operational disruptions that affected a significant number of IndiGo’s flights. The aim is to uncover both immediate and underlying issues that may have contributed to the disruptions. Captain Illson and his team will evaluate every aspect of IndiGo’s operational framework, including scheduling, flight management, communication systems and ground services. The goal is not just to address the specific disruptions but to pinpoint broader opportunities for improvement.

As part of the process, Captain Illson’s team will collaborate closely with IndiGo’s senior management to gain an in-depth understanding of the airline’s operational challenges and examine how those challenges could have been mitigated. The independent nature of the review ensures that the findings will be impartial, with a clear focus on operational efficiency and long-term sustainability.

Opportunities for Improvement in IndiGo’s Operations

In addition to identifying the root causes of recent disruptions, the independent review will also explore potential opportunities for improvement within IndiGo’s operations. This could include recommendations for enhancing operational protocols, optimizing flight schedules and streamlining communication channels between departments. By focusing on these areas, IndiGo aims to mitigate future disruptions and improve overall passenger experience.

The review is expected to focus on specific issues such as flight delays, cancellations and the communication of such disruptions to passengers. Furthermore, it will likely evaluate the effectiveness of the airline’s response strategies during times of operational stress. These insights will not only help address current concerns but also lay the groundwork for strengthening IndiGo’s operational resilience in the face of future challenges.

Moving Forward with Confidence

The review process will be carried out promptly, with Captain Illson and his team expected to submit a comprehensive report to IndiGo’s Board upon completion. The findings of this report will provide IndiGo with clear, actionable recommendations, aimed at improving the airline’s operational capabilities and reducing the likelihood of future disruptions.

IndiGo’s decision to appoint Chief Aviation Advisors LLC and commission this expert review underscores the airline’s dedication to its passengers and the broader aviation community. The airline continues to prioritize transparency, accountability and operational excellence as part of its long-term strategy. By actively addressing the root causes of operational disruptions, IndiGo is demonstrating its commitment to becoming a more resilient and efficient airline.