Aviation Ministry Orders IndiGo to Clear All Pending Refunds by Sunday Night

Dec 2025 : The Ministry of Civil Aviation on Saturday issued a firm directive to IndiGo Airlines to clear all pending passenger refunds by 8 pm on Sunday, December 7, amid the continuing operational disruption that has affected the airline for the fifth straight day. The crisis saw another 405 domestic flights cancelled on Saturday, leaving thousands of travellers stranded across the country.

In an official statement, the Ministry said it has “mandated that the refund process for all cancelled or disrupted flights must be fully completed by 8:00 PM on Sunday, December 7.” It also directed that no rescheduling charges be levied on passengers whose travel plans were impacted by the large-scale cancellations.

The government made it clear that there will be no leniency on compliance. “Any delay or non-compliance in refund processing will invite immediate regulatory action,” the Ministry warned, indicating strict enforcement of passenger protection norms.

Alongside refunds, the government has also instructed IndiGo to urgently trace and deliver baggage that was separated from passengers during the disruption. The airline has been given a deadline of 48 hours to ensure that such baggage reaches the residential or chosen address of affected passengers.

“Airlines have been told to maintain clear communication with passengers regarding tracking and delivery timelines, and to provide compensation where required under existing passenger rights regulations,” the statement said. Officials stressed that stranded travellers must not face further inconvenience due to poor communication or delays in baggage recovery.

To improve grievance redressal, the Ministry has further directed IndiGo to immediately set up dedicated passenger support and refund facilitation cells. These cells have been tasked with proactively reaching out to affected passengers and ensuring that refunds, rebooking, and alternative travel arrangements are processed smoothly without requiring repeated follow-ups.

The automatic refund system will remain operational until flight services stabilise completely, the Ministry added.

“The Ministry of Civil Aviation remains in continuous coordination with airlines, airports, security agencies, and all operational stakeholders to ensure that passenger rights are fully protected during this period of disruption,” the statement said.

Special emphasis has been placed on vulnerable and priority passengers. The government has instructed that proper facilitation must be ensured for senior citizens, differently abled passengers, students, patients, and those requiring urgent medical or personal travel.

The Ministry reiterated that it is fully committed to restoring complete operational normalcy at the earliest and will continue to closely monitor IndiGo’s compliance with all regulatory directions issued in the larger public interest.

Team Maverick.