IndiGo, India’s largest carrier, faced intense public backlash and operational chaos on Wednesday as massive flight delays and cancellations left thousands of passengers stranded across the country, particularly at major hubs like Mumbai and Bengaluru. Reports indicate that around 70 IndiGo flights were delayed in Mumbai and Bengaluru alone.
Social media platforms were flooded with complaints, with frustrated travelers reporting delays ranging from three to over 12 hours, labeling the situation an “absolute mockery” of airline management.
Hours of Chaos and Lack of Information
Passengers at multiple airports reported long, frustrating queues, repeated changes in departure schedules, and a critical lack of clear communication from airline staff. The lack of timely information exacerbated congestion at check-in counters and boarding gates.
One passenger on X (formerly Twitter) complained about a four-hour delay for a flight from Delhi: “I’m currently wasting my time in the Delhi Airport lounge, thanks to the fabulous efficiency of @IndiGo6E flight 6E 5347, delayed by a whole 4 hours. And of course, they didn’t bother informing us…”
Another traveler described the scene at Delhi Airport as “absolute chaos & mockery,” stating they had been stranded for over 12 hours with no confirmation on their seven-plus hour delayed flight, vowing, “Never flying IndiGo again. This needs to be investigated.”
IndiGo Attributes Delays to ‘Operational Challenges’
In an official statement, IndiGo acknowledged the widespread disruptions, attributing them to a mix of “operational challenges,” including technology issues, airport congestion, and other operational requirements.
The airline assured affected customers that its teams are working diligently to normalize operations “as soon as possible” and that alternate flight options or full refunds are being offered to those impacted, as applicable.
Situation Escalates at Hyderabad Airport
The situation became volatile at Hyderabad airport, where videos surfaced showing large crowds of angry passengers arguing intensely with overwhelmed airline staff.
The chaos centered around flight 6E-786 from Mumbai to Hyderabad, which was delayed by nearly 10 hours. Originally scheduled for late Tuesday evening (December 2), the flight finally departed the following morning. Footage from the scene showed travelers demanding accountability and clear answers, illustrating the breakdown in service amid the prolonged wait.
The disruptions highlight the severe stress currently facing India’s aviation sector during the peak travel season, where system-related and operational challenges across multiple airlines have been reported this week.