The Aryavarth Express
New Delhi: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Friday announced the withdrawal of a key instruction that barred airlines from substituting crew leave for weekly rest — a move aimed at easing nationwide operational disruptions that have severely impacted flight schedules.
The decision comes on a day when over 500 IndiGo flights were delayed or cancelled, causing widespread inconvenience to passengers across the country.
In its statement, the DGCA referred to its earlier directive that clearly stated “no leave shall be substituted for weekly rest.” However, citing ongoing disruptions and multiple representations from airlines seeking flexibility to maintain continuity of operations, the regulator said the provision has now been reviewed.
“In view of the ongoing operational disruptions and representations received from various airlines regarding the need to ensure continuity and stability of operations, it has been considered necessary to review the said provision,” the DGCA noted.
The instruction prohibiting substitution of leave for weekly rest has been withdrawn with immediate effect, with approval from the Competent Authority.
Pilot Association Raises Safety Concerns
The amendment comes amid growing concern from pilot unions. Earlier, the Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPA India) wrote to the DGCA objecting to what it termed “selective and unsafe dispensations” granted to IndiGo under the revised Flight Duty Time Limit (FDTL) Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) Phase II.
ALPA argued that extending exemptions to a single airline undermines the intent of FDTL norms — rules specifically crafted to prevent pilot fatigue and ensure passenger safety.
“This decision has undermined the very spirit of the FDTL regulations and gravely compromised the safety of the flying public,” ALPA wrote in its letter.
IndiGo’s Operational Breakdown Under Review
IndiGo, which has been at the centre of the nationwide disruption, has sought temporary operational variations for its A320 fleet until February 10, 2026. The airline has assured the DGCA that operations will stabilise by that date.
The DGCA, after a detailed review meeting, found that IndiGo’s operational issues stem from:
Transitional challenges during the implementation of Phase 2 of revised FDTL norms
Gaps in crew planning
Seasonal winter constraints
The revised fatigue-management rules — implemented following court orders — came into force in two phases on July 1 and November 1, 2025.
IndiGo has recently witnessed a spike in cancellations, averaging 170–200 flights daily, significantly higher than usual.
Delhi Airport Operations Hit
Amid Friday’s turbulence, Delhi Airport announced that all IndiGo departures from the capital have been cancelled until midnight, though flights operated by other airlines are continuing as scheduled.
The mass disruptions have left thousands of travellers stranded, highlighting the urgency of restoring operational stability across Indian aviation.
