In a significant move to address widespread flight schedule disruptions, the Indian government has put newly proposed pilot duty time limitations on hold. The decision, announced on December 5, 2025, comes as a relief to airlines, particularly IndiGo, which has been grappling with operational challenges.
Urgent Measures to Curb Flight Chaos
The Ministry of Civil Aviation stated it has taken "urgent and proactive measures" to manage the ongoing chaos affecting numerous flights across the country. A key part of this intervention involves placing the recent Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) orders issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in abeyance. This suspension is effective immediately.
The FDTL norms are regulations that govern the maximum working hours and mandatory rest periods for pilots, crucial for ensuring flight safety and crew well-being. The ministry's swift action indicates the severity of the operational strain the proposed changes were causing to airline schedules.
Three-Day Timeline for Full Restoration
A senior ministry official provided a clear timeline for passengers expecting normalcy. The ministry has assured that a complete restoration of all affected flight schedules is targeted within the next three days. This commitment aims to bring stability back to the aviation network, which has seen a spike in delays and cancellations.
The decision to pause the DGCA's FDTL orders suggests that the new rules, perhaps intended for long-term safety enhancements, had unintended short-term consequences on flight operations. By temporarily reverting to previous norms, the authorities hope to allow airlines to stabilise their rosters and clear the backlog of disrupted services.
Impact and the Road Ahead
The immediate beneficiary of this decision is IndiGo, India's largest carrier, which was notably mentioned in the context of the disruptions. The airline, along with others in the sector, can now utilise the breather to re-organise crew schedules and minimise passenger inconvenience.
This episode highlights the delicate balance regulators must maintain between implementing progressive safety regulations and ensuring the smooth, day-to-day functioning of a complex industry. The ministry's proactive step underscores a pragmatic approach to crisis management, prioritising immediate operational recovery while likely planning a more phased or revised introduction of the new FDTL rules in the future.
Passengers are advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines for the latest updates on specific flights as the system returns to normal over the 72-hour restoration period.
