Tripura’s MBB Airport faces chaos as IndiGo cancels nine flights, stranding passengers

Guwahati: Tripura's Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport in Agartala experienced significant travel disruptions on Friday after IndiGo abruptly cancelled nine flights, affecting a total of 18 operations, including arrivals and departures.

The airline cited crew scheduling problems, reportedly linked to newly implemented Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), as the reason for the cancellations.

The sudden cancellations, along with multiple delays, caused significant confusion at the airport, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded and thousands more uncertain about their travel plans.

Four flights, including two to Kolkata, were delayed by over seven hours, while two others experienced approximately one-hour delays.

Despite the disruption, MBB Airport managed to handle 15 flights on Friday, eight arrivals and seven departures.

Passengers criticised IndiGo for not issuing prior notices, with many learning about cancellations only after arriving at the airport. “No messages, calls, or alerts were sent before the cancellations. We were left confused and frustrated,” said one traveller.

The disruption affected not only leisure travellers but also people from Tripura, neighbouring northeastern states, and Bangladesh travelling for medical appointments, emergencies, or long-standing plans.

With daily passenger traffic at MBB Airport between 4,500 and 5,000, the sudden halt intensified the chaos.

Airport staff struggled to assist the large crowds seeking rebooking, refunds, or alternate travel options, while other airlines continued to operate only limited flights to and from Agartala.