India's largest airline, IndiGo, is battling a severe operational crisis that has now stretched into its sixth consecutive day. The widespread disruption has plunged air travel into chaos, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and increasingly frustrated as their plans lie in tatters. The ripple effects of the crisis have also sent airfares soaring across the country, adding to the woes of travelers.
Scale of the Disruption and Airline's Response
As of Sunday, December 7, the low-cost carrier was forced to cancel a staggering 650 flights in a single day. The situation, however, shows tentative signs of improvement. In a recent statement, IndiGo indicated that operations are gradually stabilizing, with 137 out of its 138 airport destinations now functioning at full capacity.
The airline has announced a significant relief measure for affected flyers. Passengers whose travel plans were disrupted will be eligible for a full refund on all cancellations and rescheduling requests for bookings with travel dates falling between December 5, 2025, and December 15, 2025. This directive aligns with the rules set by the aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which mandates that airlines must offer a refund or rebooking option for delays or cancellations caused by them.
How to Claim Your Refund from IndiGo
If your IndiGo flight has been impacted, here is a step-by-step guide to claim your compensation:
- Visit the official IndiGo website or open their mobile app. Go to the "Manage Booking" section.
- Enter your PNR or booking reference along with your last name to check your flight's status.
- If the airline cancelled your flight, you can opt for a full refund or rebook on the next available flight without any extra charge. For domestic flights delayed by more than six hours, you are entitled to either an alternate flight within six hours or a full refund.
- Proceed to the IndiGo refund page and select "Cancellation / Refund for Cancelled Flight." Enter your PNR, email address, and passenger details to submit your request.
The refund process depends on your original payment method. For online payments, the amount is typically credited back to the source within 5–7 business days. For cash payments, you must visit the airport ticket counter where you booked, with your ticket and valid ID proof. Bookings made through travel agents or third-party portals require you to contact those agencies directly to initiate the refund claim.
Financial Impact and Passenger Relief
The financial magnitude of this crisis is substantial. The Civil Aviation Ministry revealed on Sunday that IndiGo has already processed refunds worth a colossal ₹610 crore for passengers affected by the mass cancellations and delays. Furthermore, in a logistical effort, the airline had returned approximately 3,000 pieces of baggage to passengers across India as of Saturday.
The government has intervened, directing IndiGo to complete the ticket refund process for all cancelled flights by Sunday evening. It has also instructed the airline to ensure all baggage separated from travelers is delivered to their preferred addresses within the next two days. As the airline works to restore normalcy, passengers nationwide are navigating the cumbersome process of reclaiming their money and rearranging their journeys.
