India's Aviation Authority Orders IndiGo to Reduce Winter Flight Schedule by 5%

India's aviation regulator has mandated IndiGo, the country's largest airline, to reduce its winter flight schedule by 5%, a directive affecting approximately 1,200 flights across the upcoming season. The decision was issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to alleviate pressure on major airports, particularly in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, where congestion has increased due to rising passenger demand and limited air traffic control capacity. The reduction applies specifically to the winter operational period from December 2025 through February 2026. IndiGo, which operates over 2,400 daily flights, will need to adjust its fleet deployment and crew schedules to comply. The airline currently holds a 57% market share in India’s domestic aviation sector, making this adjustment one of the most significant regulatory interventions in recent years. The 5% cut equates to a reduction of roughly 200 flights per day during peak hours. Aviation safety experts note that this measure is not punitive but aligns with established protocols for managing airspace efficiency and ensuring safety margins during high-density operations. Airports handling more than 70% of their daily capacity have been flagged for review under the new directive. The change is expected to affect travelers on popular domestic routes, including Mumbai-Delhi, Delhi-Bangalore, and Hyderabad-Chennai. Passengers may see revised flight times, fewer daily options, or rescheduled departures. Airlines and travel agencies are being urged to communicate changes promptly to minimize disruption.