We have all faced flight delays for various reasons at least once while travelling. A few hours or so delay is something we can sit through but having to sit through a 40-hour delay for the flight to be eventually cancelled? Now, that’s another level of torture. Sadly, that’s what passengers on the IndiGo Mumbai-Istanbul flight had to go through recently. This, added with no clear updates from the airline, caused outrage amongst the passengers. Here’s what went down during this “nightmarish” flight delay.
40+ Hours Delay On IndiGo Mumbai-Istanbul Causes Chaos At The Airport
Passengers on an IndiGo flight to Istanbul were scheduled to fly out from Mumbai at 6:40 AM on March 7. However, the flight was delayed several times and the passengers were left stranded for more than 40 hours at the airport! The flight was eventually cancelled and the airline cited “technical issues with the aircraft” as the reason for this delay and cancellation.
The frustrated passengers took to social media to lash out at the airline. They called it a “nightmarish” experience. They complained about inadequate communication by the airline. Furthermore, they also mentioned that there was no proper accommodation, and refreshments during the extended delay. There were senior citizens, children, and families scheduled to travel on this flight and were forced to sit for more than 40 hours at the Mumbai airport.
Also Read: Know Your Rights: 8 Rules You Should Know If Your Flights Is Delayed Or Cancelled
IndiGo’s Late But Official Response For The Passengers
According to IndiGo, they followed all the guidelines issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for such delays. The airline acknowledged the delay and cited a “technical issue with the incoming aircraft from Istanbul” as the main reason. IndiGo, reportedly, offered alternate options, rescheduling, and refunds in line with DGCA norms. Furthermore, they apologised for the inconvenience caused to the flyers.
In an official statement, IndiGo said, “IndiGo’s flight 6E18 from Mumbai to Istanbul has been delayed due to a technical issue with the incoming aircraft from Istanbul. Passengers for this flight are being accommodated on 2 special flights operated by A32x aircraft and, we are currently working with the regulator to obtain the requisite clearances at the earliest. At this moment, ensuring passengers’ comfort caused by this unforeseen situation is our top priority and we are providing alternate options, rescheduling, and refunds as per norms. IndiGo sincerely apologises for the inconvenience resulting from this delay,”
That sure sounds like a nightmare! What’s the longest delay you’ve experienced at an airport? Let us know in the comments!
Cover Image Courtesy: X/@rishitaa & IndiGo
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