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New Delhi: InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo, experienced a decline of over 3% in its stock on Thursday as the airline grappled with significant flight disruptions nationwide.

The share price fell to Rs 5,405 in the morning, marking its lowest point in more than five months, continuing a downward trend for the second consecutive day. IndiGo encountered one of its most substantial operational challenges in recent years, with approximately 200 flights cancelled on Wednesday.

These disruptions were primarily attributed to a critical shortage of crew members, especially pilots, following the implementation of revised Flight Duty Time Limitation regulations last month.

The new guidelines mandate airlines to ensure more rest hours and humane working conditions for their crew. IndiGo has struggled to swiftly adapt its operations to these new requirements.

The effects lingered into Thursday, with nearly 73 flights cancelled at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport, further inconveniencing passengers.

In response to the widespread cancellations, IndiGo issued an apology, recognizing the significant disruptions across its network over the previous two days.

The airline cited several unforeseen issues—including minor technical problems, adjustments to the winter schedule, adverse weather conditions, increased air traffic congestion, and the implementation of new crew rostering rules—that collectively created a challenging situation.

To stabilize its operations, IndiGo announced it would implement measured schedule adjustments for the next 48 hours, aiming to restore normalcy and gradually improve punctuality.

Meanwhile, the aviation regulator has initiated an investigation into the disruptions, requesting IndiGo to provide a comprehensive report detailing the reasons for the cancellations and its strategies to mitigate delays and enhance passenger convenience.

Earlier in the week, IndiGo shares had already dropped about 2% to close at Rs 5,595.50. Over the past five days, the stock has decreased nearly 6%, although it remains over 2% higher compared to six months ago.