Aviation Ministry Analyzes Probe Panel Report on IndiGo Flight Disruptions
The Civil Aviation Ministry is analyzing the probe panel report on IndiGo's December flight disruptions that resulted in over 1,600 flight cancellations in a single day. The DGCA-constituted inquiry committee, headed by Joint Director General Sanjay K Bramhane, submitted its findings after investigating the circumstances behind the massive operational breakdown. DGCA has already directed the airline to reduce its winter schedule by 10% and issued show-cause notices to senior executives, citing inadequate planning in implementing revised pilot rest norms as the primary cause.

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
The Civil Aviation Ministry is currently analyzing the comprehensive report submitted by the probe panel that investigated Interglobe Aviation 's massive flight disruptions earlier this month. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu confirmed on December 30 that the ministry is reviewing the findings and seeking additional input from aviation regulators.
Investigation Details and Timeline
The inquiry committee, headed by DGCA Joint Director General Sanjay K Bramhane, was constituted on December 5 to conduct a thorough assessment of the circumstances that led to the unprecedented flight disruptions. The committee submitted its report on Friday evening after completing its comprehensive review.
| Investigation Parameter: | Details |
|---|---|
| Committee Head: | DGCA Joint Director General Sanjay K Bramhane |
| Constitution Date: | December 5 |
| Report Submission: | Friday evening |
| Focus Area: | Comprehensive review of disruption circumstances |
Speaking to reporters, Minister Naidu stated, "The report has been submitted to the ministry. We are analysing the report, taking further comments from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and we will follow up on the action on that."
Scale of Flight Disruptions
The disruptions were unprecedented in scale, with IndiGo cancelling more than 1,600 flights in a single day, followed by several consecutive days of bulk cancellations. The inadequate planning in implementing revised pilot rest norms was identified as the primary reason for the operational chaos.
| Disruption Impact: | Scale |
|---|---|
| Single Day Cancellations: | Over 1,600 flights |
| Duration: | Multiple consecutive days |
| Primary Cause: | Inadequate planning for revised pilot rest norms |
| Operational Impact: | Bulk cancellations across network |
Regulatory Response and Actions
Following the massive disruptions, DGCA took immediate regulatory action against the country's largest airline. The aviation regulator directed IndiGo to reduce its winter schedule by 10% and issued show-cause notices to key executives including CEO Pieter Elbers and COO Isidre Porqueras.
The DGCA order dated December 5, which established the probe panel, indicated that the situation revealed deficiencies in multiple operational areas. According to the regulator, the circumstances demonstrated shortcomings in:
- Internal oversight mechanisms
- Operational preparedness protocols
- Compliance planning procedures
Background and Regulatory Oversight
The DGCA order establishing the investigation panel noted that the regulator had previously issued repeated directions and advance instructions to the airline regarding timely preparation for implementing Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms. The situation was deemed serious enough to warrant an independent examination of the airline's operational practices.
The ministry's analysis of the probe panel report will determine the next course of action and any additional measures required to prevent similar disruptions in the future. The comprehensive review aims to address the systemic issues that led to the operational breakdown and ensure improved compliance with aviation safety and operational standards.
Historical Stock Returns for Interglobe Aviation
| 1 Day | 5 Days | 1 Month | 6 Months | 1 Year | 5 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| -1.96% | -1.63% | -6.85% | -13.05% | +17.24% | +191.73% |















































