Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Oct 8: Budget carrier IndiGo has been slapped with a Rs 20 lac fine by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) over alleged lapses in pilot training protocols at Category C airports. The airline’s parent company, InterGlobe Aviation, disclosed the penalty in a regulatory filing to stock exchanges on Wednesday.
According to the filing, IndiGo received official communication from the DGCA on September 26. The aviation regulator found the airline in violation of mandatory training standards, specifically citing the failure to use qualified simulators for training pilots operating in Category C aerodromes — known for challenging terrain and additional safety requirements.
The filing stated: “Details of violation(s)/contravention(s) committed or alleged to be committed: Alleged failure to use qualified simulators for pilot training at Category C Aerodromes.”
IndiGo, in its statement, confirmed that it is contesting the regulator’s order and has initiated the appeal process. The airline emphasized that the fine will not materially impact its financial position or business operations.
“The company is in the process of contesting this Order before the appropriate appellate authority,” it said. “There is no material impact on financials, operations, or other activities of the Company.”
IndiGo also addressed the delayed disclosure of the penalty, attributing it to a lag in internal communication. “The delay in disclosure was unintentional and caused by a delay in internal communication of details pertaining to the order,” the statement added.
Following the news, shares of IndiGo closed at Rs 5,630.50 on the National Stock Exchange (NSE), down Rs 33.50 or 0.59% for the day.
This development adds to a string of recent incidents involving the airline. Earlier this year, an IndiGo flight bound for Delhi from Lucknow — carrying over 150 passengers, including MP Dimple Yadav — was forced to abort take-off due to a technical issue.
The DGCA’s move underscores its ongoing efforts to tighten oversight on flight safety and ensure strict compliance with aviation norms, particularly concerning pilot training at sensitive airports.