The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has begun examining complaints against IndiGo Airlines following major flight disruptions that affected thousands of passengers across the country earlier this month. The move comes after widespread cancellations and delays raised concerns about passenger rights and the impact of such disruptions in a market dominated by one airline.
According to official sources, the CCI has taken cognisance of information filed against IndiGo and will assess whether the airline’s actions violated provisions of the Competition Act, 2002. The regulator will first conduct a preliminary review to decide if a detailed investigation is required.
IndiGo, India’s largest airline with a significant share of the domestic aviation market, faced severe operational problems in early December. At the peak of the crisis, the airline cancelled over 2,000 flights, leaving passengers stranded at airports and struggling to find alternative travel options. Social media platforms were flooded with complaints about long waiting hours, lack of clear communication, and difficulties in getting refunds or rebookings.
The complaints before the CCI reportedly question whether IndiGo’s dominant position in the market worsened the impact of the disruptions, especially for passengers who had limited choices when flights were cancelled. Under competition law, companies with a dominant market share are expected to act responsibly and not harm consumer interest through unfair practices.
Responding to the developments, IndiGo said its operations have now “completely stabilised.” The airline stated that flight schedules are back on track and normal services have resumed after addressing the issues that led to cancellations and delays. It also assured passengers that steps have been taken to prevent a repeat of such disruptions.
The airline has attributed the crisis largely to operational and planning challenges, including pilot rostering issues linked to new safety and duty time regulations. Separately, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has also reviewed the situation and taken action as part of its regulatory oversight.
