JAMMU / SRINAGAR: Chaotic scenes erupted at both commercial airports in Jammu and Kashmir after 13 IndiGo flights to and from Srinagar and 11 flights from Jammu were cancelled on Friday, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded.
The cancellations triggered protests and heated exchanges as travellers accused the airline of failing to provide assistance or clarity on rescheduling.
The disruption comes amid IndiGo’s nationwide operational crisis caused by pilot-rostering complications, resulting in widespread delays and cancellations across major airports.
According to airport officials, IndiGo was originally scheduled to operate 36 flights at the Srinagar airport — 18 arrivals and 18 departures. However, due to crew-rostering issues, 13 incoming and 13 outgoing flights were cancelled, leading to long waiting hours, confusion and agitation among travellers.
“Passengers were shouting and demanding answers about delays and cancellations,” an eyewitness passenger said, adding that frustration had reached its peak before authorities brought the situation under control.
Voices from Ground Zero
Several passengers described hours of uncertainty and lack of support.
Rishabh Kumar, travelling from Kolkata via Srinagar on a connecting flight, alleged complete negligence by authorities.
“We were told in Kolkata that our Delhi flight would be ready upon arrival, but no one helped us here. We waited for four hours, then that flight was rescheduled and eventually cancelled,” he said. “No explanation, no assistance.”
Another couple from Kerala, stuck in Srinagar, narrated how sudden cancellation upended their travel for a family function.
“Online status showed the flight was on time. At the airport, they said it was cancelled,” said Hidayatullah. “We don’t know what to do. Going back to the hotel will cost more.”
Similar scenes unfolded at Jammu airport, where long queues formed at information desks as passengers sought clarity.
“We have waited two hours, no proper reply. They say the flight is cancelled — where do we go?” said Swati from Lucknow, returning after a Vaishno Devi pilgrimage.
“My ticket got cancelled three times. I had two days of leave. It’s been a week now. My child missed an exam,” said Arti Razdan, stranded with her children.
Airport staff acknowledged the strain, saying they are doing their best with whatever information they receive.
Nationwide Crisis
IndiGo continues to witness widespread operational breakdowns triggered by pilot duty roster constraints, forcing large-scale cancellations across the country, with many passengers stranded for up to three days.
The airline has yet to issue a comprehensive public statement addressing passenger grievances, though travel advisories are being updated intermittently.
