IndiGo Crisis: supreme court Declines to Hear PIL on Flight Cancellations
The supreme court refused to hear a public interest litigation (PIL) concerning the cancellation of hundreds of indigo flights across the country.
The petition was filed by narendra Mishra, who highlighted widespread passenger inconvenience due to sudden flight cancellations.
The apex court advised the petitioner to approach the delhi high court, where a similar matter is already under consideration.
The bench clarified that if no satisfactory resolution emerges from the high court proceedings, the petitioner may return to the supreme Court.
Bench Observations
The bench comprised Chief Justice surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice vipul M. Pancholi.
The judges noted that judicial discipline requires avoiding parallel hearings on the same issue in multiple courts.
Since the delhi high court is already seized of the matter, the supreme court chose not to intervene at this stage.
Role of delhi High Court
The delhi high court has already expressed strong displeasure over the handling of the indigo flight cancellation crisis.
On december 10, the high court questioned the central government for failing to take timely action.
The court observed that millions of passengers were stranded, while other airlines allegedly charged exorbitant fares.
The petition before the high court seeks directions for passenger assistance, compensation, and timely refunds.
DGCA’s Intervention
During the supreme court hearing, it was informed that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has constituted an expert committee.
The committee was formed on december 5 to examine:
Reasons behind the large-scale flight cancellations
Compliance with aviation safety and duty regulations
The extent of inconvenience caused to passengers
Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for indigo, apprised the court about the committee’s formation.
Passenger Concerns Highlighted
Petitioner narendra Mishra emphasized that passengers faced severe hardship, including long delays, lack of information, and financial losses.
Airports across the country witnessed chaos due to abrupt cancellations and limited alternatives.
The supreme court acknowledged the seriousness of passenger grievances but reiterated that the appropriate forum is the delhi High Court.
Reason for Flight Cancellations
IndiGo reportedly cancelled hundreds of flights citing changes in pilot duty norms and flight operation regulations.
These cancellations disrupted travel plans nationwide and triggered legal scrutiny.
Way Forward
The supreme court encouraged the petitioner to actively participate in the delhi High Court proceedings.
It maintained that judicial and regulatory processes already in motion should be allowed to reach a conclusion before further intervention.
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