Chennai: Direct flights between Chennai and Penang, operated by IndiGo Airlines, remain unaffected despite the airline’s operational crisis, which resulted in the cancellation of numerous flights and caused confusion for thousands of passengers across India.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai confirmed that Flight 6E1045 from Chennai landed safely at 8:09 am at Penang International Airport (LTAPP). “This morning, the Chennai-Penang flight landed as usual and operations have not been affected for several days now,” Wong stated.

The operational crisis at IndiGo arose from a shortage of pilots and flight crew, attributed to the implementation of new Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) rules. These new regulations require longer rest periods for staff, which IndiGo had not adequately accounted for in their staffing calculations. Consequently, the airline faced significant challenges, leading to flight cancellations.

IndiGo has admitted to misjudging the number of pilots necessary under the new FDTL regulations. In response, the Indian government has ordered an investigation into the “mismanagement” and announced the formation of a committee to identify those responsible for the oversight.

The direct flight route from Chennai to Penang was launched by IndiGo on December 21, 2024, featuring amenities such as fully lie-flat business class seats and an in-flight entertainment system. This route has contributed to a 51.43 percent increase in Indian tourist arrivals at LTAPP last year.