Chennai | Dec 7, 2025 | SKY LINK TIMES |
Air travel disruption intensified in Chennai on Sunday as nearly 100 IndiGo flights were cancelled at Chennai International Airport, marking the sixth consecutive day of widespread cancellations and leaving hundreds of passengers stranded.
The situation triggered chaos at airport terminals as anxious travellers crowded airline counters seeking last-minute rebookings, refunds, and information. With IndiGo being the dominant carrier on several major domestic routes, the ripple effect of the cancellations was immediate and severe.
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Staff Shortage Behind Widespread Disruptions
According to officials, the primary reason behind the continuing crisis is a severe shortage of airline crew following the enforcement of stricter duty-time regulations for pilots and cabin staff. These safety norms were introduced to curb fatigue-related risks, but have significantly impacted IndiGo’s ability to roster adequate manpower.
Since the new rules came into force, the airline has struggled to maintain scheduled operations across its network. Over the last five days alone, more than 2,000 IndiGo flights have reportedly been grounded nationwide, affecting both domestic and select international routes.
Passenger Anger Grows at Chennai Airport
At Chennai airport, tempers flared as stranded passengers confronted airline staff over sudden cancellations and poor communication. Several travellers alleged they were informed only after reaching the terminal, while others complained about long waits for refunds and alternative arrangements.
Families travelling with children, elderly passengers, and those on medical trips were among the most affected. Hotel bookings, connecting flights, and emergency travel plans were thrown into disarray due to the prolonged disruption.
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Centre Steps In, Temporary Relaxation Announced
The issue gained national attention after it was raised in Parliament, prompting swift intervention by the Union government. According to official sources, the Centre has granted temporary relaxation of duty-time restrictions for airline crew to stabilise operations.
Government officials said flight schedules are expected to begin normalising within the next 24 hours, with full restoration likely within three days, if operations stabilise as planned.
Airfares Soar, Travel Agents Report Booking Surge
With IndiGo flights grounded in large numbers, airfares on other airlines surged sharply as passengers scrambled for seats. Travel agents in Chennai reported a sharp rise in emergency bookings, cancellations, and refund-related queries.
Despite repeated assurances, uncertainty continues to haunt travellers as cancellations stretch into a sixth straight day.
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