IndiGo Flight Chaos at Bengaluru: Over 50+ Cancellations, Nationwide Delays, Terminals Jammed, Passengers Stranded, Fares Soar, Other Airlines Impacted

IndiGo’s crisis extends beyond Bengaluru: 225 flights cancelled in Delhi, 104 in Mumbai, 92 in Hyderabad, and 102 in Bengaluru. Pilot shortages and crew duty-limit issues were cited. The disruption is considered the worst in the airline’s 20-year history.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) convened multiple meetings, directing IndiGo to stabilise operations and ensure fare caps. The regulator monitored corrective measures, stressing the importance of passenger safety while reducing inconvenience caused by cancellations and flight delays.

Ticket fares surged due to limited flight availability. Delhi–Bengaluru fares rose to Rs 11,000–43,145, while Mumbai–Kolkata tickets touched Rs 19,000. Passengers were forced to pay premium prices for last-minute travel, further inflaming frustration during a national airline crisis.

Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport saw 52 IndiGo arrivals and 50 departures cancelled. Passengers faced confusion, overcrowded terminals, and long waiting periods. Airport officials promised updates, but stranded travellers struggled for information and support.

Aircraft stuck at airports like Pune delayed other airlines’ schedules. Other carriers faced disrupted boarding processes and operational bottlenecks, highlighting the interdependent nature of India’s air travel ecosystem and how a single airline’s issues can affect the entire sector.

Bengaluru’s Terminal 1 experienced extreme congestion. Seating areas were fully occupied, queues snaked across counters and security checks, and baggage belts were overwhelmed. Frustration among flyers grew, with many unable to find guidance from airport staff or the airline.

Passengers reported poor communication, long wait times, and uncertainty over flights. Images from the terminal showed crowded check-ins, baggage chaos, and travellers sleeping on floors. Many had waited over 13 hours without updates or guidance.

IndiGo requested variations/exemptions from Flight Duty Time Limit (FDTL) rules for A320 operations until 10 February 2026. The airline assured the DGCA that these measures, combined with corrective action plans, will help restore normal operations and prevent further passenger inconvenience.

Passengers complained about minimal assistance, unclear information, and long lines at security and check-in counters. Many were unsure whether to leave the airport or wait for last-minute updates, creating heightened stress and frustration among those travelling for urgent commitments.

The airline committed to resolving its operational challenges by 10 February 2026. Corrective steps include addressing crew shortages, optimising flight schedules, and enhancing passenger communication. DGCA oversight aims to ensure timely resolution, prevent fare exploitation, and restore trust among stranded travellers.