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Chandigarh: Amid the nationwide IndiGo flight disruption, the Punjab government has stepped in to ensure zero chaos at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, setting up a 24×7 passenger facilitation control room to assist flyers with real-time support.
Secretary Civil Aviation Sonali Giri, who reviewed the situation with airport authorities, CISF and airline representatives, said the initiative was taken on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to minimise inconvenience to passengers affected by flight delays and cancellations.
Real-Time Assistance for Refunds, Rescheduling and Baggage
The control room has been established at the Duty Terminal Manager’s office, where dedicated teams are monitoring flight operations, delays, cancellations and baggage issues round-the-clock. Assistance is being provided for refunds, rescheduling, baggage delivery and flight updates.
For help, passengers can contact the state helpline at 95010-15832 or register their concerns on the official social media handles of CHIAL, including @ixcairport. Airline-wise helpline numbers have also been activated, including IndiGo (92899-38532), Air India (8800197833 / 0172-2242201), Air India Express (92055-08549) and Alliance Air (98184-28648).
Free Home Delivery of Luggage, Fare Caps Enforced
Giri said around 30 pieces of stranded luggage of IndiGo passengers will be delivered free of cost to their residences by the airline. She also directed that passengers must be informed at least 10 hours in advance if a flight is cancelled.
She confirmed that the airfare caps imposed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) have already been implemented to prevent passenger exploitation. The state government is also keeping a strict watch to curb overcharging by taxi operators and hotels during the crisis.
Medical Aid, Food and Hotel Support for Stranded Passengers
The Secretary said arrangements for medicines, food and other essential needs of passengers are being made jointly by airport authorities and the state government. Lists of budget, mid-range and other nearby hotels will be shared to help outstation passengers.
Expressing confidence that the situation will stabilise soon, Giri urged passengers not to panic, assuring that the government is taking every possible step to safeguard their interests and ensure smooth airport operations.
