Air Traffic Chaos in Kashmir as IndiGo Delays Spark Passenger Outcry
Operational snags, crew shortages and last-minute changes leave travellers stranded
Authorities say disruptions were avoidable and not weather-related
Srinagar: Air travel in Kashmir plunged into disorder on Saturday as a series of operational snags and airline mismanagement—particularly involving IndiGo—triggered widespread anger among passengers at Srinagar International Airport. While winter schedules often strain flight operations, travellers said the scale of confusion this time was “unprecedented”.
Several IndiGo flights were delayed for hours, with passengers alleging poor communication, repeated gate changes and unclear explanations for technical or crew-related issues. As crowds swelled inside the terminal, tempers rose and arguments erupted at airline counters.
A senior airport official said the “primary disruption today was not weather-related but operational”, with cascading delays across IndiGo’s network. “Visibility was normal. The problem came from crew rotations and aircraft not being positioned on time. When one flight is delayed, the entire chain collapses. We had to revise departure timings throughout the day,” the official said.
IndiGo staff appeared overwhelmed as they tried to handle complaints. An airline supervisor said crew shortages contributed to an “unexpected bottleneck”. “We understand passengers’ frustration, but some delays were unavoidable. We tried to share updates as soon as possible,” he said.
Travellers, however, described the experience as chaotic.
Aijaz Dar, travelling to Delhi with his family, said they waited nearly five hours without clarity. “Every time we asked, the reason changed—technical fault, aircraft not ready, crew unavailable. There were hardly any proper announcements. This is not acceptable,” he said.
Saba Rashid, a student flying to Bengaluru, said passengers were repeatedly called for boarding and then sent back. “People were exhausted and confused. If something is wrong, they should inform us clearly,” she said.
Another Srinagar resident, Manzoor Lone, who missed an onward international connection, said he struggled to get assistance. “I requested a delay certificate but no one responded. Such mismanagement affects work, health, everything,” he said.
Tourists faced inconvenience as well. Mohit Mehra from Delhi said the ordeal felt unnecessary. “There was no fog, no weather issue. It was just poor coordination. Staff looked completely overwhelmed,” he said.
Airport authorities said they have asked IndiGo to streamline ground operations and issue timely alerts to avoid repeat situations. “Such chaos is avoidable. Passengers must receive accurate information to make decisions,” an official said.
With winter travel intensifying, officials warn of more disruptions unless airlines tighten schedule management and improve transparency. For now, Saturday’s turbulence has left passengers demanding greater accountability from India’s largest low-cost carrier.
