Air India Flight to Dubai Delayed at Mumbai Airport, Passengers Stranded for Five Hours

Mumbai, January 25 : Chaos ensued at Mumbai Airport as passengers of Air India flight AI 909 bound for Dubai were stranded for nearly five hours due to a technical issue. Tempers flared as the delay extended, prompting passengers to protest inside the aircraft. Eventually, they were deboarded, with Air India management promising to accommodate them on an alternate flight to Dubai.

Technical Glitch Grounds Flight

Sources revealed that flight AI 909 was scheduled to depart at 8:25 AM, with boarding commencing at 7:20 AM. Once all passengers were aboard, the aircraft’s doors were closed, but a technical issue was detected shortly afterward. The on-ground maintenance team began addressing the issue, leaving the passengers waiting onboard.

The problem escalated as the air conditioning system malfunctioned, causing discomfort among the passengers. Prolonged delays and the lack of airflow heightened their frustration. Despite assurances from the flight staff about resolving the issue promptly, passengers grew increasingly agitated as hours passed without resolution.

Passengers Demand Answers

By 12:00 PM, with no clear update and worsening conditions inside the aircraft, passengers began protesting. Following the growing unrest, Air India decided to deboard the passengers around 1:00 PM. The airline announced that they would arrange an alternate flight to ensure passengers reached Dubai.

One passenger, Kavin Shah, recounted the ordeal:
“We boarded at 7:30 AM, but by 9:00 AM, it was clear something was wrong. The crew informed us about a technical issue and assured us it would be resolved soon. By 10:00 AM, engineers were called, but there was no progress. The air conditioning wasn’t functioning, and by noon, the heat and lack of ventilation became unbearable. We started protesting, and only then were we allowed to deboard.”

Air India’s Response

Air India’s management acknowledged the delay and stated:
“We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers. Due to an unforeseen technical glitch, flight AI 909 could not depart as scheduled. We are working to accommodate all affected passengers on another flight to Dubai. The safety and comfort of our passengers remain our top priority.”

While the airline’s assurances brought some relief, passengers were left disappointed by the extended delay and lack of timely updates.

Operational Challenges at Mumbai Airport

This incident highlights the challenges faced by airlines in ensuring seamless operations amid technical or logistical setbacks. Stranded passengers called for better communication and prompt action to avoid such situations in the future.