IndiGo to Follow New Pilot Duty Norms

India’s largest airline, IndiGo, will start operating flights under the revised pilot duty rules from February 11, 2026. The update was confirmed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

The regulator said that a temporary exemption given to the airline has now ended. The exemption had allowed IndiGo to operate certain Airbus A320 family flights without fully following the new Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms.

According to the DGCA, the special permission was granted on December 5, 2025. At that time, the airline was facing large-scale disruptions. Thousands of flights were cancelled in early December, affecting many passengers during a busy travel period.

Officials said the temporary relaxation was given to help stabilize operations and protect passenger interests. The exemption was valid only until February 10, 2026.

In a statement, the DGCA said IndiGo has informed the regulator that it is fully prepared to comply with the approved FDTL scheme. The airline has reportedly made necessary operational, rostering, and monitoring arrangements to ensure complete adherence to the revised norms from February 11.

The aviation regulator also shared that the exemption was granted with strict conditions. These included submission of hourly flight operation data and regular performance reports to the DGCA.

During the exemption period, IndiGo’s flight operations were closely monitored. The DGCA held periodic review meetings with the airline. Regulatory officers were deployed at several airports to oversee passenger handling and reduce inconvenience.

In addition, Flight Operations Inspectors were placed at the airline’s Operations Control Centre for real-time monitoring. The regulator stated that this ensured continuous oversight throughout the exemption period.

The revised Flight Duty Time Limitation rules are aimed at enhancing aviation safety by regulating pilot working hours and ensuring adequate rest. Such measures are considered important for maintaining operational safety standards in the aviation sector.

With the exemption now expired, IndiGo’s flight schedule will operate fully under the updated pilot duty framework.

No further extensions have been announced by the regulator.