IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has announced an increase in allowances for its pilots. This decision will benefit around 5,000 pilots and will come into effect from January 1.
According to a PTI report, captains will now get ₹3,000 for layovers, up from ₹2,000 earlier. First officers will receive ₹1,500, compared to the earlier ₹1,000.
Higher Allowance for Deadheading Trips
IndiGo has also increased allowances for deadheading trips, where crew members travel as passengers for duty.
The allowance for captains has been raised from ₹3,000 to ₹4,000, while for first officers it has increased from ₹1,500 to ₹2,000. This reflects nearly a 50% increase in these allowances.
The move comes after IndiGo cancelled over 4,500 flights due to roster-related problems. The management took this decision after multiple meetings to address pilot dissatisfaction and improve morale.
Foreign Airlines Attracting Indian Pilots
IndiGo is facing challenges on two fronts. Domestic operations are under pressure, while foreign airlines are offering better salaries and lifestyle benefits to Indian pilots.
To prevent pilots from resigning and joining overseas airlines, IndiGo has improved its benefits structure. At the same time, the Indian government is working on a code of conduct for international pilot recruitment.
Crew Shortages and New Duty Rules Caused Disruptions
Operational issues worsened after the DGCA introduced new Flight Duty Time Limit (FDTL) rules in November to improve pilot comfort.
IndiGo failed to adjust its crew scheduling and rosters on time to meet these rules. As a result, around 5,000 flights were cancelled or delayed between the end of November and the first week of December.
DGCA Takes Action Against IndiGo
After thousands of passengers were stranded, the DGCA ordered IndiGo to cut its winter schedule by 10% to stabilise operations.
In addition, an inquiry committee submitted a confidential report to the ministry, which is expected to highlight planning failures and management negligence.
In early December alone, more than 5,000 flights were cancelled within six days.
Air Travel Continues to Grow Despite Issues
Despite airline challenges, domestic air travel is growing. In November, 15.3 million passengers travelled by air, nearly 7% more than last year.
From January to November 2025, 15.26 million passengers flew domestically, marking a 4.26% year-on-year growth.
Passenger Complaints Rise in November
Airline-related complaints increased in November, with 1,196 complaints filed.
More than 50% were related to flight delays or disruptions, followed by baggage issues (17.9%) and refund problems (12.5%).
During this period, IndiGo recorded a higher cancellation rate than other airlines. The crisis lasted from December 1 to December 10, creating chaotic conditions at airports.
Moody’s Warns of Financial Impact
Credit rating agency Moody’s warned that large-scale flight cancellations could lead to significant financial losses for IndiGo.
Loss of revenue, passenger refunds, and possible government penalties may affect the airline’s profitability. While IndiGo still holds a 63% market share, concerns have been raised about its service quality and staff management.
Talks Between Management and Pilots Continue
In recent weeks, IndiGo’s senior executives visited multiple bases to meet pilots and discuss pay hikes. Pilots raised concerns over fatigue and roster planning.
The airline fears that if these issues are not resolved, operations could face further disruption.
IndiGo Apologizes to Passengers
Amid the crisis, IndiGo responded to the DGCA’s notice and issued an apology. The airline said it regrets the incident, has restored its full network, and is in talks with the DGCA regarding Phase II of the FDTL rules.
