Air India Phuket-Delhi: 5-Hour Journey Extends to Four Days
Passengers aboard Air India’s flight AI 377 from Phuket to Delhi experienced significant delays, transforming a scheduled five-hour journey into a four-day challenge. The ordeal began on November 16, when the Airbus A320, registered as VT-EDD, was unable to depart due to technical issues and crew duty time limitations.
Initial Cancellation and Subsequent Attempts
On November 16, the flight, carrying 142 passengers, was scheduled to depart at 5:50 PM local time. However, technical complications and crew duty constraints led to its cancellation. The following day, the aircraft departed from Phuket at 8:44 PM but was forced to return after 3.5 hours due to another technical snag.
Passenger Accommodations and Current Status
Air India provided hotel accommodations in Phuket for the affected passengers. Many chose to cancel their tickets and make alternative arrangements to return to Delhi. As of the latest reports, approximately 30-35 passengers remain in Phuket, with plans to fly them back on Wednesday.
Air India’s Response
In an official statement, Air India expressed regret over the inconvenience caused:
“Air India sincerely regrets the inconvenience to passengers of Flight AI-377 operating from Phuket to Delhi on Nov 16 which was cancelled due to a technical issue. While our staff on the ground made efforts to minimise their inconvenience, providing all on-ground assistance including hotel accommodations and meals, some of the guests were also reaccommodated on alternatively available flights. Passengers were also offered options for full refunds on cancellation and complimentary rescheduling. At Air India, the safety and security of our passengers and crew is top priority.”
This incident highlights the challenges airlines face with technical issues and crew management, emphasizing the importance of robust maintenance and operational protocols to ensure passenger safety and minimize disruptions.
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