‘Pilots were ready, but IndiGo never issued their duty rosters’:Captain Anand claims passengers were left stranded deliberately; pressure tactic allegations emerge

The ongoing flight cancellations and delays by IndiGo, previously blamed on a “crew shortage,” may have a different cause. Deputy Chief Flight Instructor Captain Anand Chaurasia revealed that pilots were available, but the airline did not provide them with rosters. This lack of scheduling left passengers stranded, creating chaos at airports. Pilots available but not assigned Captain Chaurasia said pilots were ready to work, but they never received duty rosters. Without a roster, a pilot cannot report to the airport. This deliberate action left passengers stranded, suggesting the cancellations were a strategy rather than a mistake. Passengers left waiting According to Anand, passengers were called to the airport even though cancellations were planned. They waited in queues for an hour, checked in, and were then abandoned. The resulting frustration caused chaos. Anand believes the airline intended for public anger to fall on the government. Cost-cutting endangers safety Captain Anand criticised the airline for cost-cutting measures that affect safety. Pilots are forced to operate four or five sectors a day without proper rest. Aviation rules exist to ensure pilots remain alert during takeoff and landing. Ignoring these rules risks passenger safety. No pilot shortage, but training lacking Contrary to public belief, there is no shortage of pilots. Many exist, but training is insufficient. Pilots can work 60–70 hours a month, but fatigue and health issues are real. Anand emphasised that pilots must have the right to refuse flights if unfit, but airlines often ignore this. Human limits ignored Captain Anand compared flying while tired to driving a car while drowsy. Pilots face personal pressures, including family responsibilities and license renewals. Companies often ignore these challenges, putting public safety at risk. Dominance of big airlines Anand said big airlines exploit passengers and block smaller carriers. Government support for small airlines is essential to prevent monopolies and ensure competition. Pilots often blamed When accidents occur, the blame is usually placed on pilots. Anand said the real causes—long hours, unsafe schedules, and airline policies—are overlooked. This, he believes, is a calculated policy by companies to protect themselves while exploiting both pilots and passengers.