Particle.news
Download on the App Store

India’s Antitrust Regulator Orders Probe Into IndiGo Over Alleged Abuse of Dominance

Investigators will test whether December’s mass cancellations created artificial scarcity and harmed competition during peak travel.

Overview

  • In a 16-page order, the Competition Commission of India found a prima facie case that IndiGo restricted services and directed its Director General to complete a detailed investigation within 90 days.
  • The order cites DGCA data showing 2,507 cancellations and 1,852 delays between December 3 and 5, affecting more than 300,000 passengers during the disruption.
  • Separately, the DGCA imposed Rs 22.20 crore in fines, cut IndiGo’s winter schedule by 10% until February 10, required a Rs 50 crore bank guarantee, and issued warnings to senior executives including CEO Pieter Elbers.
  • CCI notes IndiGo’s dominant position—about 60–65% domestic share and extensive exclusive routes—while pointing out the carrier’s market share slipped to 59.6% in December.
  • The case was triggered by a passenger complaint about a last‑minute cancellation and higher replacement fares, and InterGlobe Aviation shares fell roughly 3–4% after news of the probe.