The Minister of State for Civil Aviation VK Singh in a recent update to Parliament on Monday (February 5) disclosed that Indian commercial airline operators cancelled 7,427 flights in 2023, citing various reasons such as adverse weather conditions and technical issues.
Among the eleven domestic airlines affected was Go First, which is now grounded. The cancellations included 3,210 flights due to weather-related factors and 2,109 due to technical reasons.
157 aircraft grounded due to engine, other issues
Additionally, 157 aircraft were grounded due to engine or other issues, highlighting concerns over maintenance and operational challenges within the industry.
Minister Singh reassured Parliament that no Indian carrier’s aircraft had been seized by lessors or creditors abroad, alleviating fears of potential legal disputes or financial constraints.
These revelations underscore the significant hurdles faced by Indian airlines and the need for improved infrastructure, maintenance protocols, and regulatory oversight to ensure the safety and reliability of air travel.
No flight route under UDAN scheme cancelled
Moreover, the government has not cancelled any route under the regional air connectivity scheme UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik). Launched in 2016, UDAN aims to enhance regional air connectivity and render air travel accessible to residents of tier-2 and tier-3 cities and towns.
The scheme’s continuity underscores the government’s commitment to fostering aviation accessibility and promoting economic development in remote and underserved regions across the country.