Special Correspondent: Arun Sharma
New Delhi.

The Delhi High Court has issued a sharp reprimand to Indigo Airlines over steep ticket prices, mass flight cancellations, and the misery caused to thousands of passengers. In scathing remarks, the Court asked the Central Government to explain what action it took when the airline “completely failed in its duty towards the public.”

The matter took a serious turn when the Court was informed that an air ticket priced at ₹5,000 was sold for an astonishing ₹35,000. Calling it “a blatant case of consumer exploitation,” the bench questioned how such unregulated pricing was allowed to happen.
“Who is monitoring the airlines? Who is responsible for protecting passengers?” the Court asked.

DGCA Under the Lens — ‘Are You Even Watching?’

The High Court grilled the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), seeking answers on its role as the aviation regulator. The Court demanded clarity on:

Were passengers notified on time about cancelled flights?

Were they provided alternative travel options?

Is the refund process being executed promptly and transparently?

Calling the sudden fare spikes “a shocking example of unmonitored and arbitrary pricing,” the Court sought a detailed explanation from DGCA on enforcement of fare regulations.

Government’s Stand

Responding to the Court’s concerns, the Centre said that DGCA has issued notices to Indigo and other airlines, asking them to justify the excessive fares and repeated cancellations.
The government further stated that airlines have been instructed to either accommodate passengers on alternative flights or process full refunds without delay.

‘Fix the System’ — Court Warns Officials

The Court noted that flight cancellations leave thousands of passengers stranded at airports, disrupting business schedules, family commitments and essential travel plans.
“Why should citizens suffer because of airline mismanagement?” the Court remarked, urging authorities to overhaul monitoring mechanisms.

Next Hearing on January 22

The bench has directed the government and DGCA to submit a detailed compliance report before the next hearing on January 22, stressing that passenger rights cannot be compromised any further.