Pilot associations across India are taking legal action against the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) over controversial exemptions granted to airlines from mandatory duty time regulations. The challenge specifically targets regulatory relief provided to major carriers, including Interglobe Aviation , which operates under the IndiGo brand.

Regulatory Exemption Under Scrutiny

The DGCA's decision to provide duty time rule exemptions has become a focal point of contention within the aviation industry. These exemptions allow airlines greater operational flexibility in scheduling pilot duties, potentially extending working hours beyond standard regulatory limits. Pilot representative bodies argue that such exemptions could compromise safety standards and pilot welfare.

Industry Impact and Safety Concerns

The legal challenge reflects broader concerns within the aviation sector about balancing operational efficiency with safety protocols. Pilot associations contend that extended duty periods might lead to fatigue-related safety risks, while airlines argue that regulatory flexibility is essential for maintaining operational schedules and managing crew resources effectively.

Legal Proceedings and Industry Response

The formal challenge by pilot bodies represents a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute between aviation workers and regulatory authorities. This legal action could potentially impact how airlines structure their operations and manage pilot scheduling across the Indian aviation market. The outcome may set important precedents for future regulatory decisions regarding pilot duty time limitations and airline operational exemptions.

Interglobe Aviation 's IndiGo has proactively cancelled and delayed flights at Delhi and northern India airports due to severe low visibility conditions caused by dense fog. The airline has prioritized passenger safety in response to these challenging weather conditions.

Weather Impact on Operations

The dense fog conditions have severely impacted flight operations at Delhi and other airports across northern India, creating circumstances beyond the airline's control. IndiGo's operational teams are closely monitoring the evolving weather situation and maintaining coordination with Delhi airport authorities in strict adherence to established safety protocols.

Flight Cancellations and Delays

To prioritize passenger safety and minimize extended waiting times at airports, IndiGo has implemented the following operational adjustments:

Customer Communication and Support

The airline has issued comprehensive advisories to customers and is proactively informing passengers to minimize inconvenience during the disrupted operations. IndiGo has emphasized the importance of passengers staying updated on their flight status through multiple channels.

Available Information Channels

• Company website for real-time flight updates
• Mobile application for status notifications
• Direct customer advisories from the airline

Ongoing Support Measures

IndiGo's customer service teams remain available to assist passengers at every step of their journey, ensuring continued support during the weather-related disruptions. The airline has acknowledged that consequential delays may occur as operations adjust to the prevailing weather conditions throughout the day.

The operational adjustments reflect the airline's commitment to safety while working to minimize passenger inconvenience during challenging weather conditions affecting multiple airports across northern India.