The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken a firm stance against IndiGo, issuing a show-cause notice to the airline's CEO. This regulatory action comes after the carrier reportedly failed to comply with mandatory norms designed to manage crew fatigue and ensure adequate rest periods.
Expert Backs Regulator's Move, Cites Safety Imperative
Aviation specialist Sharath Panicker has publicly supported the DGCA's decision. He clarified that the relevant Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) concerning crew rest and fatigue management was formally implemented in July 2024 and carries the full force of law. Panicker emphasized that the regulation was notified well in advance, providing all airlines with sufficient time to adjust their flight rosters and internal policies accordingly.
The primary objective of this rule is to safeguard pilots and cabin crew members from excessive fatigue, a critical factor that, if unmanaged, could directly compromise passenger safety. "Crew safety was at risk," Panicker noted, underscoring the non-negotiable nature of such protocols.
IndiGo's Non-Compliance Triggers Scrutiny
While other major Indian carriers have aligned their operations with the new mandatory standards, IndiGo's alleged failure to do so has triggered this heightened regulatory scrutiny. The show-cause notice demands an explanation from the airline's top management for the lapses observed.
Panicker stressed that when the lives of travelers are at stake, adherence to established safety standards cannot be ignored or treated lightly. The DGCA's action highlights a strict enforcement approach, signaling that compliance deadlines are definitive and not merely suggestive.
Implications for Aviation Safety Standards
This incident puts a spotlight on the ongoing challenge of fatigue management in the fast-growing Indian aviation sector. The regulator's move is seen as a necessary step to uphold the highest safety benchmarks and ensure a level playing field where all operators follow the same rules.
The outcome of this notice and IndiGo's response will be closely watched by the industry, as it sets a precedent for how strictly crew duty time limitations and rest requirements are monitored and enforced across all airlines operating in India.
