DGCA Investigation Report on IndiGo: The DGCA’s investigation report on the delays and cancellations of thousands of IndiGo flights in December last year has been released. It found excessive optimization of operations, lack of adequate backup for crew and aircraft. It also mentioned the failure to implement the new FDTL regulations properly. Considering this as gross negligence, DGCA has taken strict action and warned the CEO of IndiGo. Also, a fine of 22.2 crore rupees has been imposed on IndiGo. Action has also been taken against the COO and SVP-OCC.
The DGCA investigation report details serious flaws in software and management. It also revealed excessive pressure on the crew, with attempts to maximize their duty hours. Dead-heading, tail swaps, and long duty hours were observed. Furthermore, the crew was given very little rest and recovery time.
It’s worth noting that IndiGo faced a major crisis in December last year. Thousands of flights were delayed and canceled, causing significant inconvenience to passengers. The DGCA’s investigation report on this matter has now been released. Taking strict action, the DGCA has issued a warning to the CEO, warning the COO (Accountable Manager), and removing the SVP (OCC) from operational responsibilities. The DGCA has also imposed a fine of ₹22.2 crore on IndiGo for the significant flight disruptions.
What did the investigation committee find?
- The Committee found that the primary causes of the disruption were excessive customisation of operations, inadequate regulatory preparedness as well as deficiencies in system software support and deficiencies in management structure and operational controls on the part of IndiGo.
- The committee found that IndiGo management failed to identify deficiencies, maintain operational buffers, and effectively implement revised Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) provisions. These lapses resulted in widespread flight delays and cancellations, causing inconvenience to passengers.
- The investigation further found that excessive focus was placed on optimal utilisation of crew, aircraft and network resources, leading to significant reduction in roster buffer margins.
- Crew rosters were designed to maximize duty periods, with a high reliance on deadheading, tail swaps, extended duty patterns, and minimal recovery margins. This affected the roster and impacted operations.
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