IndiGo Share Price in Focus; To Return Unused Airport Slots Amid Operational Reset

As per Moneycontrol report, India's largest airline, IndiGo, has announced the return of unused airport slots as part of its corrective actions after recent operational challenges that led to major flight cancellations in December 2025. 

Operational Reset Following 10% Schedule Reduction 

IndiGo is set to hand back airport slots that are currently unutilised, after the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) instructed a 10% reduction in its flight schedule in December 2025. This action followed a massive operational disruption affecting over 3,00,000 passengers and leading to the cancellation of more than 4,500 flights.  

IndiGo committed to stabilising operations without further cancellations after February 10, when a temporary exemption from revised Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms expires. 

Reason Behind the Slot Return 

The airline clarified that any unutilised or consolidated slots must be returned, as part of responsible slot management.  

IndiGo CEO stated the carrier has clarity on its immediate operational plan and will return the slots accordingly. The reallocation of these slots lies with the respective airport authorities. 

DGCA’s Investigation Findings 

On January 17, 2026, the DGCA disclosed findings from a committee that investigated the disruption. Key causes included over-optimisation in scheduling, inadequate regulatory preparedness, system software issues, and lapses in operational control.  

The inquiry highlighted failure in planning, lack of operational buffers, and delayed implementation of revised FDTL norms as contributors to the December crisis. 

Read More: IndiGo Signals Operational Stability to DGCA, Expects No Cancellations After February 10! 

Leadership Changes and Internal Review 

As a result of the findings, the DGCA directed that Jason Herter, Senior Vice President of Operations Control Centre, be removed from operational responsibilities and barred from holding any accountable role. IndiGo has begun an internal review of its systems and is coordinating with the DGCA to ensure continuity and compliance with operational norms. 

InterGlobe Aviation Share Price Performance  

As of January 23, 2026, at 9:23 AM, InterGlobe Aviation share price on NSE was trading at ₹4,832.50 down by 1.56% from the previous closing price. 

Conclusion 

IndiGo's decision to return unused airport slots comes in response to regulatory requirements after operational disruptions in December 2025. The airline aims to streamline operations and maintain stability post-February 10. 

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