In an unprecedented move, the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has issued a strict ultimatum to IndiGo Airlines: refund every affected passenger by 8 PM on Sunday, December 7, 2025 — or prepare for immediate regulatory action.
The order follows IndiGo’s massive operational breakdown that left thousands stranded as flights across major airports were abruptly cancelled or delayed. The government described the chaos as a “complete operational failure” and declared that passengers will not be penalised for the airline’s internal lapses.
Automatic Refunds, No Fees — Govt Cracks Down Hard
MoCA’s directive states:
● Full refund to original payment mode for all cancelled or severely delayed flights
● No rescheduling, cancellation, or convenience fee can be charged
● Refunds must be processed automatically, without passengers filing complaints
Officials said this step was necessary to protect passenger rights and send a clear message that airlines must maintain fair practices — or face consequences.
Baggage Must Reach Passengers Within 48 Hours
The government has also ordered IndiGo to trace and deliver all misplaced baggage within 48 hours.
The airline must:
●Provide real-time tracking updates
●Maintain transparent communication
●Offer compensation wherever mandated under passenger rights rules
The ministry said baggage delays had added to the passengers’ distress and would now be monitored “minute by minute.”
Special Support for Students, Elderly, and Medical Travellers
The government confirmed it is working with airports, security agencies, and airline operators to ensure senior citizens, people with disabilities, students, and medical travellers receive priority assistance.
“Restoring normalcy and protecting travellers remains our top priority,” the ministry said.
IndiGo Responds: Refunds Started, Issues Apology
Under mounting pressure, IndiGo issued a statement expressing “deep regret” for the disruption.
The airline said:
●Refunds for December 5–15 bookings have already begun
●Cancellation and rescheduling fees have been waived
●Passengers are being provided meals, hotel stays, and on-ground support where needed
But now, with the government’s 48-hour deadline, IndiGo’s compliance will be under constant regulatory surveillance.
Passengers Cheer, Experts Raise Red Flags
Following the announcement, social media exploded with posts under #IndiGoRefund, with many travellers welcoming the government’s tough stand.
However, aviation experts warn that IndiGo’s collapse signals deeper concerns.
“This was not just a technical glitch — it was a breakdown in planning, accountability, and consumer protection,” an analyst told CNBC-TV18.
‘Zero Tolerance’ for Negligence: Govt Sends Strong Message
MoCA has reiterated that any failure to complete refunds by Sunday evening will trigger penalties without delay.
“We are committed to ensuring passengers are treated with fairness, transparency, and respect,”
— Ministry of Civil Aviation.
The ultimatum marks a defining shift in India’s aviation policy:
Passenger rights are no longer optional — they are enforceable.
