IndiGo Airlines faced a significant technical issue that caused widespread disruptions across its network. Passengers reported long queues at check-in counters and difficulties booking tickets, leading to frustration among travellers. The problems began around 12:30 PM, and the airline confirmed a “temporary system slowdown” shortly after.
IndiGo, India’s largest airline by domestic market share, experienced a network-wide technical glitch affecting its website and booking system. This slowdown resulted in longer wait times and chaotic scenes at various airports. In an official statement, IndiGo acknowledged the issue, stating, “We are currently experiencing a temporary system slowdown across our network, affecting our website and booking system”.
The airline warned passengers to expect increased wait times for check-ins and baggage drops. Reports from travellers showed large crowds waiting at check-in areas, with some unable to book flights online. IndiGo’s social media channels were flooded with complaints from frustrated customers.
#6ETravelAdvisory : We are currently experiencing a temporary system slowdown across our network, affecting our website and booking system. As a result, customers may face increased wait times, including slower check-ins and longer queues at the airport. (1/3)
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) October 5, 2024
Impact on Operations
The technical glitch began impacting operations around noon and continued for several hours. Although some systems briefly resumed at 1:05 PM, the issues persisted throughout the day. IndiGo’s team worked diligently to address the situation, assuring passengers that they were available to assist.
Visuals shared on social media depicted long lines at check-in counters, with many passengers expressing their discontent over the delays. One user tweeted about their inability to book a simple domestic ticket due to the website’s malfunction.
Customer Reactions
Frustrated flyers took to social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to voice their concerns. Comments ranged from complaints about excessive wait times to inquiries about flight cancellations without proper communication from the airline. One passenger noted a one-hour wait for baggage drop-off and criticized the lack of information from in-flight staff regarding flight statuses.
This is the situation at cochin international airport pic.twitter.com/5XeQZvzZkX
— Dr. Sreejit Sivadas (@sreejitsivadas) October 5, 2024
IndiGo responded to these frustrations by stating that their airport teams were fully dedicated to assisting passengers during this challenging time. They expressed regret for the inconvenience caused and appreciated customers’ understanding and patience.
Airline’s Assurance
Despite the ongoing issues, IndiGo assured its customers that they were working hard to restore normal operations as quickly as possible. They emphasized that their teams were on-site at airports to help manage the situation and provide support where needed. The airline’s commitment to resolving the issue was reiterated in multiple statements throughout the day.
