The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed on Monday that it has received IndiGo’s reply to the show-cause notice issued over the airline’s large-scale flight disruptions. The regulator said it is currently examining the airline’s response and will take enforcement action as deemed appropriate.
IndiGo Apologises, Cites Multiple Factors Behind Disruptions
DGCA said, IndiGo in its response expressed that it is “profusely apologetic” and “deeply regrets the inconvenience and hardship caused to customers” due to the cancellations. The airline explained that the disruptions were the result of a combination of factors, including minor technical glitches, schedule changes linked to the start of the winter season, adverse weather conditions, increased congestion in the aviation system, and implementation of updated crew rostering rules under Flight Duty Time Limitation Phase II.
The carrier also stated that “it is realistically not possible to pinpoint the exact cause(s) at this time due to the complexity and vast scale of operations.” IndiGo added that the DGCA’s manual allows for a fifteen-day response timeline for show-cause notices, noting that more time is required to conduct a comprehensive ‘Root Cause Analysis’ (RCA).
Show-Cause Notices to CEO and COO
The DGCA had issued show-cause notices to IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers and Accountable Manager Isidro Porqueras on Saturday, requiring explanations within 24 hours over the massive flight disruptions. After the airline requested additional time, the deadline was extended to 6 pm on Monday. “IndiGo submitted replies signed by both Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer on December 8 at 1801 hours,” the DGCA said in a statement.
The aviation watchdog will now review the submissions before deciding on the appropriate enforcement action as part of its ongoing probe into the disruption that affected thousands of passengers nationwide.
