Aviation Ministry sets deadline for IndiGo to clear refunds, aid passengers

New Delhi: The Ministry of Civil Aviation on Saturday ordered IndiGo Airlines to clear all pending passenger refunds by 8 PM on Sunday, December 7, 2025. The directive came after days of flight delays, cancellations and heavy inconvenience for travellers.

The Ministry told the airline not to charge rescheduling fees for affected passengers. It warned that any delay in refunds would lead to immediate regulatory action. IndiGo must also run special support and refund cells so that passengers get quick help without repeated follow-ups.

The Ministry asked the airline to trace separated baggage and deliver it to passengers’ homes or chosen addresses within 48 hours. It also told airlines to send regular updates and pay compensation wherever rules allow.

Passenger support cells to stay active until operations stabilise

The Ministry said IndiGo must keep automatic refund systems active until services return to normal. The support teams must call passengers, help them with options and arrange alternate travel when needed.

It also tightened oversight to protect older citizens, students, persons with disabilities and patients who need urgent travel. Officials said they will work with all stakeholders to ensure passenger rights are upheld during this period.

The directive marks one of the strongest regulatory steps taken in civil aviation to ensure fairness and accountability during large-scale service disruptions.