BS EDIT: Suboptimal Response

By Business StandardPublished On Jan 21, 2026

Penalty Without Clarity

The DGCA’s ₹22.20 crore fine on IndiGo comes weeks after disruptions, but the probe report remains undisclosed

Accountability Gap

Beyond penalties, the regulator should have ensured operational continuity and identified root causes in real time

Disruption By Numbers

Over 2,500 cancellations and 1,800 delays affected more than 3 lakh passengers during peak travel season

Transition Risks

As new FDTL norms approach, the DGCA must ensure a foolproof shift prioritising safety and service quality

Use Of Penalty Funds

Questions persist on whether fines should compensate affected passengers, as practiced by US regulators

Awaiting CCI Findings

The CCI probe must assess if IndiGo’s market dominance and pilot shortage claims breached competition norms