DGCA’s big decision on IndiGo crisis, rule preventing pilots from taking leave withdrawn

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Friday relaxed a mandatory crew-duty requirement as IndiGo’s operational crisis disrupted air travel across the country, leading to thousands of flight cancellations and massive delays. In an official order, the regulator said it was temporarily withdrawing a rule that prevented airlines from taking accrued leave in place of weekly rest. Due to this restriction, crew rostering had become difficult during the current crisis. DGCA has written a letter appealing to all pilot associations and pilots for cooperation. DGCA has withdrawn the instructions given to all operators regarding weekly rest for crew members after the Ahmedabad plane crash.

DGCA wrote on Twitter, ‘…in view of the ongoing difficulties in operations and the representations received from various airlines regarding the need to ensure continuity and stability of operations…the direction given in this paragraph that no leave will be given in lieu of weekly rest is immediately withdrawn…’

What was discussed in the meeting with Indigo and what did Indigo say to DGCA regarding flight cancellation? Let us know in detail-

1. The main problem came due to the new Phase-II FDTL rules.
2. The company did not prepare adequately in advance (crew planning and rostering was weak).
3. This affected the passengers, for which it is the responsibility of the airline.
4. The airline said that it will recruit new crew in the coming days so that the rules can be followed.
5. In view of this situation and in order to normalize air services, DGCA has decided to give temporary relaxation for one time, in public interest.

Temporary exemption given to Indigo

The DGCA has also granted a one-time conditional exemption from mandatory night duty restrictions to the airline to help it shore up its stressed network. The regulator has allowed IndiGo pilots to make up to six night landings, which is a significant relief from the current Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) rules, under which each pilot can make only two night landings.

1. Night duty (00:00 to 05:00).
2. Flights touching night duty.

This relaxation has been given only to temporarily stabilize operations and will not be considered as relaxation in safety standards. This discount will be valid till 10 February 2026. There will be a review every 15 days, for which the airline will have to send a report.

What are the conditions?

Indigo will give report every 15 days, in which-

1. actual use of crew
2. Steps to increase crew availability
3. improving operations

New planning and rostering measures-

1. Within 30 days, Indigo will have to provide a roadmap/plan to fully comply with FDTL Phase-II.
2. The airline will have to strictly follow all other FDTL rules.
3. Safety is most important. If necessary, DGCA can withdraw this exemption at any time.