As IndiGo continues to cancel hundreds of domestic and international flights nationwide, Congress MP and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Friday launched a scathing attack on the Central government, claiming that the aviation crisis reflects the Centre’s “monopoly-driven governance model”.

In a sharp post on X, Gandhi said the ongoing disruptions — which have left thousands of passengers stranded — are a direct result of the government’s failure to ensure fair competition in the aviation sector.

He wrote, “The IndiGo mess is the real cost of this Government’s monopoly model. Once again, ordinary Indians suffer — facing delays, cancellations and complete helplessness. India needs genuine competition in every sector, not match-fixing monopolies.”

Nationwide Air Travel Disruption Intensifies
India’s largest airline is facing one of the worst crises in its history, with over 400 flights cancelled on Friday alone. Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport saw more than 220 cancellations, while Bengaluru reported over 100. Hyderabad too witnessed disruptions, with 90 flights cancelled through the day.

Multiple airports across the country, including Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Chennai, reported severe delays, overcrowded terminals, and long queues at airline counters. Passengers complained of inadequate communication, lack of assistance, and expensive last-minute airfares on other carriers.

IndiGo has attributed the turmoil to a massive crew shortage, operational constraints, and the impact of new Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms.

DGCA Reviewing IndiGo’s Plea for Relaxation
Amid mounting public frustration, IndiGo has briefed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and requested temporary relaxation from the revised FDTL guidelines. The DGCA has acknowledged the request and said it is actively monitoring the situation.

Government Issues Stern Warning
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu held an emergency review meeting on Thursday and directed IndiGo to restore normalcy at the earliest.

“I have instructed DGCA and Ministry officials to keep close watch on the airline’s network. IndiGo must stabilise operations immediately,” Naidu said in a post on X.

The airline has claimed that it expects operations to normalise only by February 10, 2026, further intensifying criticism from the opposition.

Public Outrage Mounts
From stranded families to business travellers missing crucial appointments, thousands nationwide have taken to social media to voice anger and demand accountability. Last-minute fares on alternative flights have reportedly skyrocketed, worsening the situation.