New Delhi: In a bid to alleviate the ongoing aviation turmoil, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has rolled back a crucial clause in the new crew rostering regulations, aiming to restore stability amid IndiGo’s nationwide flight cancellations. The move comes as the airline struggled through its third consecutive day of operational chaos, cancelling over 700 flights on Friday.
The provision in question, part of the revised Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL), had prevented airlines from counting crew leaves as part of their mandatory weekly rest. Following representations from multiple carriers, the DGCA announced that the clause would be immediately withdrawn for all airlines.
“In view of the ongoing operational disruptions and representations received from various airlines regarding the need to ensure continuity and stability of operations, it has been considered necessary to review the said provision,” the regulator said in an official statement. It added, “The instruction that no leave shall be substituted for weekly rest is hereby withdrawn with immediate effect.”
Industry experts note that the partial relaxation of FDTL norms will provide airlines, particularly IndiGo, with greater flexibility in crew scheduling, a critical step to counter the severe shortages that have plagued the carrier in recent days. The crisis, fueled by winter congestion, technical issues, and insufficient crew availability, has left passengers stranded at major airports across the country, prompting widespread frustration.
IndiGo, India’s largest carrier, has been under intense pressure after several of its flights faced long delays or cancellations. Passengers reported confusion at airports, with staff providing inconsistent updates on departure times. The DGCA’s intervention is expected to ease some operational pressure, allowing airlines to better manage rest schedules while meeting flight commitments.
While the decision offers temporary relief, analysts warn that airlines must also implement long-term rostering strategies and contingency measures to prevent similar disruptions in the future, especially during high-demand periods.
The DGCA’s action signals the government’s recognition of the crisis and underscores the need for balanced regulations that ensure both crew welfare and operational continuity. As IndiGo works to normalize its schedule, passengers are advised to check flight statuses before heading to airports.
The relaxation of FDTL rules marks a significant regulatory adjustment aimed at stabilizing India’s aviation operations during a period of unprecedented disruption for the nation’s busiest carrier.
