New Delhi, Dec 5 (UNI) The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Friday withdrew a key instruction related to crew weekly rest requirements, providing temporary operational relief to airlines amid widespread disruptions.
In a circular issued on Friday, the regulatory body cancelled a clause from its January 20, 2025, communication that prohibited airlines from substituting weekly rest days with any form of leave.
Citing ongoing operational challenges and representations received from various airlines, the DGCA said the provision had been reviewed and withdrawn with immediate effect.
The circular stated that the change was approved by the Competent Authority. DGCA said the move was necessary to ensure the continuity and stability of airline operations.
The development comes on a day of major operational strain, particularly at Delhi airport, where IndiGo announced the cancellation of all its domestic departures for the remainder of the day.
In a statement, IndiGo confirmed that all domestic flights departing from Delhi Airport (DEL) on December 5, 2025, were cancelled till 11:59 pm due to “unforeseen events.”
The airline issued an apology to passengers and said it was extending full support, including refreshments, rebooking on the next available flights, hotel accommodation, assistance with baggage retrieval, and full refunds where applicable.
“All passengers who were scheduled to fly from Delhi today are requested to get in touch with our ground staff at Delhi Airport for guidance regarding luggage collection,” the airline said.
IndiGo also directed customers to its website and customer service channels for refund and assistance requests.
“We understand the immense inconvenience and distress this has caused and sincerely regret the inconvenience,” the statement added.
DGCA withdraws rest rule as IndiGo cancels Delhi flights
