An Air India flight bound for San Francisco faced a harrowing experience as it was delayed by over 20 hours, leaving passengers stranded inside the aircraft without air-conditioning. The incident occurred on flight AI 183, which was originally scheduled to take off from Delhi on Thursday afternoon. As the delay stretched into the night, some passengers reportedly fainted due to the extreme heat and lack of ventilation.
What Happened on Air India flight AI 183
Passengers on Air India flight AI 183 were initially made to board the plane despite the absence of air-conditioning. With temperatures soaring, the situation quickly became unbearable. Visuals shared by passengers on social media showed people, including children, sitting on the floor inside the aircraft. The severe heatwave in Delhi, with temperatures reaching a record 52.9 degrees Celsius, exacerbated the discomfort.
Desperate Measures
Shweta Punj, a journalist, took to social media to express her frustration. In a post on X, she highlighted the inhumane conditions passengers endured. “Flight No. AI 183 was delayed for over eight hours, and people were made to board the plane without air-conditioning,” she wrote. “After some passengers fainted, they were finally asked to exit the aircraft.” Ms. Punj also tagged Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Air India’s Response
In response to the outcry, the Air India X handle acknowledged the disruptions and assured passengers that the team was actively working to address the delay. They appreciated the ongoing support and understanding from passengers. However, for those stuck inside the aircraft, the delay had already taken a toll.
Passenger Appeals
Abhishek Sharma, another passenger, pleaded with the airline for swift action. He urged Air India to allow stranded parents, including his own, to go home. “AI 183 is over eight hours late,” Mr. Sharma tweeted. “People were made to board the plane and sit without AC. Then deplaned and not allowed to enter the terminal because immigration was done.” His post highlighted the frustration and desperation faced by those caught in the prolonged delay.
Cancellation After 20 Hours
Ultimately, the flight was cancelled after more than 20 hours of waiting. Passengers were deboarded, and some had reportedly fainted due to the lack of air conditioning. The incident has raised serious concerns about passenger welfare and the need for better protocols during such delays.
As the aviation industry grapples with challenges, incidents like this underscore the importance of prioritizing passenger comfort and safety. Air India must address these issues promptly to prevent similar situations in the future123.
Remember, your safety and well-being matter, especially during travel. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and demand better standards from airlines. 🛫✈️
