India’s aviation sector faced significant disruption on December 6, 2025, as budget carrier IndiGo canceled hundreds of flights nationwide, leaving thousands of passengers stranded at airports. The mass cancellations created chaotic scenes at major aviation hubs including Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, with travelers reporting minimal communication from airline staff regarding alternative arrangements.
The unprecedented operational crisis emerged following what industry sources describe as a combination of technical issues and crew scheduling challenges. While the airline has not released an official statement detailing the root cause, aviation analysts suggest the cancellations may be linked to systemic operational vulnerabilities within India’s largest carrier by market share.
Affected passengers took to social media to express frustration over the lack of timely information and inadequate support services. Many reported being unable to reach customer service representatives through official channels, while others complained about extended wait times at airport counters with limited resolution options.
The disruption comes during a peak travel period, exacerbating the impact on both business and leisure travelers. Aviation authorities have reportedly stepped in to monitor the situation, with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation seeking a detailed report from the airline regarding the widespread cancellations and contingency measures being implemented.
Industry experts note that such large-scale disruptions highlight the fragile nature of India’s aviation infrastructure and raise questions about operational preparedness among major carriers. The incident is expected to trigger renewed discussions about passenger rights and compensation frameworks within the country’s rapidly expanding aviation market.