IndiGo’s 10% Flight Cuts Enforced, Government Reallocates Slots to Other Airlines

Key Takeaways:

• IndiGo is now cancelling 70 flights daily from Delhi after government enforcement.
• The vacated slots have been redistributed to Air India, Vistara, and SpiceJet.
• The 10% reduction mandate is part of the winter schedule to ease airport congestion.

India’s largest airline, IndiGo, has begun cancelling 70 flights each day from Delhi. This follows the government’s enforcement of a directive to cut operations by 10% at the congested airport, effective January 24.

Slots Reallocated to Minimise Disruption

To reduce passenger inconvenience, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has swiftly redistributed the flight slots vacated by IndiGo. Other carriers, including Air India, Vistara, and SpiceJet, will now utilise these slots.

Background of the Mandate

The government had instructed all airlines to reduce flights at Delhi airport by 10% for the ongoing winter schedule, which lasts until March 30. This measure was taken to address severe congestion issues. While other airlines complied, IndiGo continued its full schedule, prompting the recent regulatory action.

IndiGo has stated that the cancellations are being implemented in a phased manner. The airline is contacting affected passengers to offer alternative flights or full refunds.