'How did a ticket worth Rs 5,000 become Rs 35,000?' HC asks, seeks govt's response on Indigo crisis
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : Regarding the cancellation of IndiGo flights, the Delhi High Court stated that this is a crisis and demanded that the government explain why the situation suddenly worsened and who is responsible. The court stated that this is not only a passenger problem but also a financial one. The court asked the central government if any steps have been taken to compensate people.
The Delhi High Court questioned the sharp increase in airfares, noting that tickets that were previously available for ₹5,000 have now risen to ₹30,000-₹35,000. The court questioned how other airlines could be allowed to take advantage of the crisis. How could fares reach ₹35,000-₹39,000? How could other airlines start charging such exorbitant amounts? How could this happen? In response, Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, citing relevant documents, stated that "the statutory system is fully in place." Furthermore, the Delhi High Court has directed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Center to refund the affected passengers.
ASG Chetan Sharma presented documents to the court regarding the steps taken in this regard. It was also said that the single bench had given time till November 1 to the airline in this regard, but no action was taken by it. It was also said that this has nothing to do with the ministry. The court asked what the central government did to avoid such a situation? The court said that it has been reported that the airline staff is not paying proper attention to these passengers and their concerns, which is expected of them not only in the context of various statutory requirements, but is also expected in any civilized society.
The Court also noted that the FDTL was to be implemented in a phased manner following certain orders of this Court passed in April 2025. As regards the provision relating to night landings, it was to be implemented from November 1, and officials are communicating, coordinating, and monitoring that R3 (IndiGo) takes steps to ensure that the night landing limits are enforced by the pilots.
However, it appears that airlines have been unable to recruit the required number of pilots to ensure compliance and observance of the FDTL. Software support has been severely lacking, which could lead to disruptions.