IndiGo's CEO Pieter Elbers has resigned
What's the story
Pieter Elbers, the CEO of IndiGo, has resigned from his position. The decision comes just months after a major operational crisis in December 2025. During this period, over 2,500 flights were canceled and nearly 1,900 were delayed due to IndiGo's failure to implement new pilot fatigue rules. The DGCA imposed a record ₹22.20 crore fine on the airline and issued show-cause notices directly to Elbers.
Leadership journey
Elbers's term at IndiGo
Elbers took over as IndiGo's CEO in September 2022. Under his leadership, the airline crossed $10 billion in revenue, expanded its fleet to over 440 aircraft, and also placed a historic order for 500 Airbus A320 family planes. However, his term was marred by a massive operational meltdown in December 2025.
Transition plans
What did he say in his resignation letter?
In his resignation letter, Elbers cited "personal reasons" for stepping down from his post. He also requested Rahul Bhatia to waive off his notice period. "It has been both an honor and privilege to serve as IndiGo's CEO these past years, since September 2022," he wrote in the letter. He further added that he would be available for any handover or transition if required by the company.
Interim leadership
Rahul Bhatia to take over IndiGo's management
Following Elbers's resignation, Bhatia, IndiGo's Co-Founder and Managing Director, will take over the management of the airline. The decision was announced in an exchange filing today. The board of directors acknowledged Elbers's resignation and stated he would be relieved from his duties by the end of business hours on March 10, 2026.