Air India Passengers Stranded in Phuket for 80 Hours Amid Flight Snag

[snoop1130]

 

An Air India flight bound for New Delhi left over 100 passengers marooned in Phuket for more than 80 hours this week, following a succession of technical problems causing multiple delays.

 

Initially, the ill-fated journey was scheduled to begin on the evening of November 16. However, due to technical malfunctions, the flight was shelved for six hours. The weary travellers, having already spent considerable time at the airport, were allowed to embark the aircraft, only to be disembarked after just an hour when the flight was inevitably cancelled. This saw a sharp rise in irritation among the passengers, many of whom used social media platforms to publicly voice their displeasure with Air India's mishandling of the incident.

 

Air India issued a statement saying “While our staff on the ground made an effort to mitigate the inconvenience, providing hotel accommodation, meals and even re-accommodating some passengers on alternative available flights. Passengers were also presented with options of full refunds on cancellation and complimentary rescheduling. We at Air India, value the safety and security of our passengers and crew above all."

 

Despite this, passengers described their experience as disorganised, with regular updates and support from the airline representatives proving inadequate. Social media buzzed with angry passengers desperately seeking responses and explanations. Many claimed that Air India's responses were insufficient or altogether absent, intensifying their dissatisfaction.

 

 

The situation dramatically deteriorated when, after a 48-hour delay, passengers were informed that the same problematic aircraft had been repaired and was ready to take off. However, this respite was short-lived as, two-and-a-half hours into the flight, they were forced to return to Phuket due to another technical malfunction.

 

Passengers called the ordeal "mentally and physically exhausting", slamming the airline for its lack of clear communication and planning. Despite Air India's claims of support in the form of hotel accommodations and meals, passengers reported consistent delays and confusion.

 

As Air India battles to rectify the situation, passengers are demanding accountability and an overhaul in crisis management protocols. This turbulent experience has sparked a debate about the airline's crisis management procedure and its ability to effectively communicate during challenging times.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-11-21

 

 

[watchcat]

11 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

An Air India flight bound for New Delhi left over 100 passengers marooned in Phuket for more than 80 hours this week, following a succession of technical problems causing multiple delays.

 

Free 80 hours holliday...

[john donson]

once you are and stay in the airport, no overstay , right? 3 days, wow

[mikeymike100]

Air India's reputation is not good and apparently is getting worse?

"“Air India has mixed product standard across its aircraft, and in some areas, the product is quite worn with better cabin maintenance and cleanliness levels required. Business Class is below 4-Star requirements for both the airport and onboard experience. The ground staff service at Mumbai Airport is also a weak feature.”

https://skytraxratings.com/airlines/air-india-rating

[Keeps]

14 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

However, this respite was short-lived as, two-and-a-half hours into the flight, they were forced to return to Phuket due to another technical malfunction.

Weren't they more than half way there after two and a half hours? Why return to Phuket taking another two and half hours? Not sure if there was a body of water to cross for the remaining part of the flight?