Agartala’s Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport witnessed severe disruption on Friday as IndiGo abruptly cancelled nine flights, resulting in 18 scrapped operations including both arrivals and departures. The airline cited crew rostering problems linked to the newly enforced Flight Duty Time Limitations issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation as the reason for the sudden cancellations.
The situation spiralled as long delays compounded the chaos, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded and thousands more facing uncertainty throughout the day. Four flights, including two services to Kolkata, remained delayed for over seven hours, while two others were held up by nearly an hour. Despite the crisis, the airport continued operating 15 flights, comprising eight arrivals and seven departures.
Travellers expressed strong dissatisfaction over the lack of prior communication, saying they were informed of the cancellations only upon reaching the airport. Many described the experience as confusing and distressing, particularly as no alerts or messages had been issued by the airline beforehand.
The disruption deeply affected passengers travelling for essential needs, including those from Tripura, neighbouring northeastern states, and Bangladesh heading for medical appointments, emergencies or important commitments. With the airport’s daily footfall ranging between 4,500 and 5,000 passengers, the sudden halt intensified the disorder.
Airport staff were overwhelmed as they attempted to assist large crowds seeking alternative travel options, refunds or rescheduled bookings. With limited operations by other airlines in Agartala, many passengers were left with few immediate alternatives to continue their journeys.
