Govt Cracks Down on IndiGo After Week-Long Flight Chaos; Refunds Ordered by Sunday, Fare Caps Imposed

Amid growing anger among passengers over widespread flight cancellations and delays, the government on Sunday issued a series of strict directives to IndiGo, instructing the airline to immediately address refund delays, missing baggage, and soaring airfares.

The intervention comes after a week of severe disruptions across IndiGo’s network, leaving thousands stranded at major airports and triggering complaints of poor communication and inadequate support.

Refunds Must Be Completed by Sunday 8 PM

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has ordered IndiGo to clear all pending refunds for cancelled or disrupted flights by 8:00 PM on Sunday, December 7, 2025.

“The refund process for all cancelled or disrupted flights must be fully completed by Sunday evening. Any delay or non-compliance will invite immediate regulatory action,” the ministry said, adding that airlines must not impose rescheduling charges on passengers affected by the cancellations.

To speed up the process, IndiGo has been instructed to establish dedicated passenger-support and refund-facilitation cells to proactively contact travelers instead of forcing them to chase the airline.

The ministry said the system of automatic refunds will remain active until operations return to normal.

Baggage Must Be Returned Within 48 Hours

The government also directed IndiGo to trace and deliver all baggage separated from passengers due to cancellations or delays within 48 hours.

Airlines must maintain clear communication on tracking and delivery timelines and offer compensation as required under existing passenger rights rules.

Full Refund Eligibility Expanded

Following the order, IndiGo announced that it would provide full refunds for all bookings cancelled between December 5 and December 15, regardless of fare type.

Govt Imposes Fare Caps to Curb Surge Pricing

Amid reports of skyrocketing last-minute fares—particularly on routes with mass IndiGo cancellations—the ministry has invoked regulatory powers to impose fare caps on affected sectors.

These caps will remain in place until flight operations stabilize fully.

“The directive aims to maintain pricing discipline and prevent exploitation of passengers—especially senior citizens, students, and patients—who urgently need to travel,” the ministry said.

Enhanced Oversight for Vulnerable Passengers

The ministry added that oversight mechanisms have been strengthened to ensure proper facilitation for:

• Senior citizens

• Differently-abled passengers

• Students

• Patients

• Others requiring urgent travel

The government said it continues to coordinate closely with airlines, airports, and security agencies to restore normalcy and ensure passenger rights are upheld.

As disruptions continue across several major routes, passengers await smoother operations—and faster refunds—over the coming days.