DGCA Officials Conduct Inspections of IndiGo Operations at 11 Airports Amid Disruptions

Senior officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) are set to conduct inspections at 11 airports across India. This move comes in response to significant disruptions in IndiGo's operations. The inspections will occur over the next two to three days, as per an official order. Airports such as Nagpur, Jaipur, and Bhopal are among those listed for inspection.

The DGCA has tasked its officers with visiting these airports promptly. They are required to submit detailed reports within 24 hours of their visits. The focus is on evaluating safety measures, operational readiness, and how well passengers are being assisted during this period of disruption.

IndiGo's Operational Challenges

IndiGo has faced criticism from both the government and passengers due to widespread flight cancellations. These issues have been attributed to a shortage of crew members following new rostering rules. The new regulations increased rest periods for pilots and staff, leading to operational challenges.

In response to the ongoing situation, the government has temporarily suspended the new Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms. This suspension aims to provide airlines with more time to adjust to the changes without further disruptions.

Inspection Focus Areas

The DGCA's inspections will cover various aspects of airport operations. Officials will assess flight delays, cancellations, terminal congestion, and queue management at check-in and security areas. They will also evaluate the adequacy of manpower at both airline and airport levels.

Additionally, the inspections will review how well airline help desks are staffed around the clock. The dissemination of information regarding delays and cancellations will be scrutinised. Special attention will be given to assistance for senior citizens, children, pregnant women, and dedicated help desks managed by IndiGo staff.

Judicial Inquiry Sought

The Delhi High Court has raised concerns about the government's delayed response to IndiGo's crisis. The court questioned why action wasn't taken sooner as thousands of passengers were left stranded. It highlighted the economic impact on the country due to these disruptions.

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by advocates Akhil Rana and Utkarsh Sharma seeks a judicial inquiry into IndiGo's operational issues. The plea also demands fair compensation for affected passengers and relief for those stuck at airports.

Monitoring Measures Implemented

The DGCA has established an oversight team comprising eight senior officers. Two members of this team will be stationed at IndiGo's corporate office. Their role is to monitor domestic and international cancellations, refund statuses, on-time performance, passenger compensation, and baggage return processes.

This oversight initiative was announced shortly before the DGCA ordered on-site inspections at the 11 airports. The aim is to ensure that IndiGo adheres to civil aviation requirements during this challenging period.

The ongoing disruptions have caused significant inconvenience for passengers across various airports in India. As authorities work towards resolving these issues, passengers hope for a swift return to normalcy in airline operations.

With inputs from PTI