DGCA Suspends Four Inspectors Over IndiGo Oversight Lapses as Nationwide Crisis Deepens
New Delhi, Dec 13: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has suspended four Flight Operations Inspectors (FOIs) over alleged oversight failures linked to IndiGo’s ongoing operational crisis. The action comes amid mounting pressure on the regulator as India’s largest airline continues to face widespread disruptions for the 11th straight day.
Context: Investigators Flag Oversight Gaps
According to sources familiar with the preliminary investigation, the suspended inspectors were responsible for monitoring IndiGo’s safety standards, operational checks and regulatory compliance. Early findings reportedly indicate that lapses in supervision may have contributed to the scale of disruptions that left lakhs of passengers stranded across major airports.
All four inspectors were serving on a contract basis and have been relieved with immediate effect. In a statement, the DGCA confirmed their removal, noting that they have been “relieved from DGCA to join their respective parent organisations.”
Crisis Across Key Metro Airports
IndiGo has been battling severe network-wide instability for nearly two weeks, with airports in Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai witnessing persistent delays and cancellations. While the airline has attributed the crisis to internal operational challenges, the regulator’s latest action shows growing concern over how oversight was handled.
The prolonged crisis has resulted in long queues, missed connections and diverted flights, prompting public anger and demands for accountability.
Regulator Forms Oversight Team, Summons IndiGo CEO
In response to the escalating situation, the DGCA has constituted an eight-member Oversight Team to monitor IndiGo’s operations more closely until services stabilise. The team has been tasked with reviewing crew availability, aircraft deployment, scheduling procedures and contingency planning.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation sacked four Flight Operations Inspectors (FOIs) in connection with the IndiGo flight cancellation crisis.
— ANI (@ANI) December 12, 2025
"They are relieved from DGCA with immediate effect to join their respective parent organisations." pic.twitter.com/GrZ2isKcca
DGCA officials are scheduled to meet IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers on Friday, where he is expected to present detailed explanations for the massive cancellations and planned corrective measures. The government has also sought frequent updates as the disruptions impact peak travel season.
Analysis
Industry analysts say the suspension of inspectors signals the regulator’s intent to tighten scrutiny amid concerns that procedural gaps may have amplified the airline’s internal challenges. With IndiGo operating over half of India’s domestic aviation market, disruptions on this scale pose wider implications for passenger mobility and airport capacity management.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople
The DGCA’s decision to suspend four key inspectors reflects a pivotal moment in India’s aviation oversight framework. As IndiGo struggles to stabilise operations, the crisis underscores the need for strong internal management supported by robust regulatory supervision. A coordinated response is essential — both to restore passenger confidence and to prevent similar disruptions in the future. Strengthening oversight, improving operational transparency and ensuring timely communication with travellers must remain top priorities as the industry navigates this turbulent phase.