📷 Image Credits: Mint
Passengers on a San Francisco-bound Air India flight endured harrowing conditions during an eight-hour delay on May 31. Social media was abuzz with accounts of passengers fainting due to the lack of air conditioning while waiting on the aircraft. Journalist Shweta Punj shed light on the situation, highlighting the distress faced by passengers aboard flight AI183 from New Delhi. The extreme delay caused discomfort and health concerns for many, especially amidst Delhi’s sweltering heatwave with temperatures nearing 50 degrees Celsius.
Air India’s response to the incident was met with criticism and pleas for immediate action. Passengers shared their ordeal online, urging the airline to provide better assistance and facilities. The lack of AC and prolonged wait times led to passengers, including children and elderly individuals, experiencing distress and exhaustion.
This incident echoes a previous delay on a Mumbai-San Francisco flight, where technical glitches caused an 18-hour delay. Despite providing accommodation and refreshments, Air India faced backlash for the inconveniences caused to passengers.
The aviation regulator, DGCA, has issued a show-cause notice to Air India for the prolonged delays and inadequate passenger care. The regulator emphasized the need for airlines to prioritize passenger comfort and adhere to regulatory guidelines. The recent incidents have highlighted a pattern of delays and discomfort on Air India flights, raising concerns among travelers.
As travelers strive to overcome the challenges of air travel, incidents like these underscore the importance of efficient operations and passenger welfare. Air India’s response and corrective measures will be closely monitored by authorities and passengers alike to ensure a safer and more comfortable flying experience.
