Delhi High Court Directs IndiGo to Submit Affidavit on Passenger Refunds and Compensation
The Delhi High Court has issued a significant directive to IndiGo, one of India's leading airlines, requiring the carrier to file a detailed affidavit concerning refunds and compensation for passengers who experienced severe disruptions during December's flight chaos. This legal intervention comes amid mounting passenger complaints and regulatory scrutiny over the airline's handling of the situation.
Court's Mandate on Transparency and Accountability
During the court proceedings, IndiGo's counsel presented the airline's current compensation framework, revealing that for flights deemed most severely impacted, the company is offering Rs 10,000 as vouchers to affected passengers. Additionally, the airline has established a dedicated website to facilitate the claims process, allowing travelers to seek compensation for the inconveniences faced.
The High Court's order emphasizes the need for greater transparency and accountability from IndiGo, as the affidavit must comprehensively outline:
- The total number of flights disrupted during the December period
- The specific compensation mechanisms implemented for different categories of affected passengers
- The timeline for processing refunds and distributing compensation vouchers
- Measures taken to prevent similar disruptions in the future
Background of the December Flight Chaos
The December flight chaos, which prompted this legal action, involved widespread cancellations and delays across IndiGo's network, leaving thousands of passengers stranded during the peak holiday travel season. Factors contributing to the disruptions included adverse weather conditions, operational challenges, and logistical issues, though passengers have criticized the airline's communication and support during the crisis.
This court directive follows a series of passenger petitions and regulatory inquiries into the matter, highlighting growing concerns over airline accountability in India's aviation sector. The affidavit submission is expected to provide a clearer picture of IndiGo's response and set a precedent for how airlines handle compensation in similar scenarios.
As the case progresses, stakeholders, including aviation authorities and consumer rights groups, will closely monitor IndiGo's compliance with the court's orders and the effectiveness of its compensation measures. The outcome could influence broader policies on passenger rights and airline responsibilities in India.
