5th December 2025: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has withdrawn its recent instruction that barred airlines from substituting weekly rest for crew members with leave. The regulator said this change was necessary as airlines are facing serious operational disruptions and need more flexibility to keep flights running smoothly.
In an updated communication, DGCA Chief Faiz Ahmed Kidwai urged all pilot associations and pilots across India to cooperate with airlines during this difficult period. He highlighted that Indigo’s operational crisis, combined with unpredictable weather, has resulted in widespread delays and cancellations across the country.
Pune has also felt the impact, with rising passenger traffic putting additional pressure on airport operations. Many travellers have faced long waiting hours as airlines struggle to manage schedules amid staff shortages and weather-related challenges.
With the fog season approaching and the holiday and wedding travel rush beginning, the DGCA expects passenger numbers to increase sharply. Kidwai warned that weather disruptions during this time could further complicate flight safety and scheduling.
He appealed to pilots to work in close coordination with airlines to maintain safe and stable operations, reduce avoidable delays, and ensure passengers are not further inconvenienced during this critical travel period.