IndiGo Flight Diversion Sparks Controversy as Passengers Create Makeshift Dinner on Mumbai Tarmac
Mumbai, 16th January 2024: A video capturing passengers of an IndiGo flight diverted to Mumbai on January 14 has gone viral, showing them sitting on the airport tarmac and creating a makeshift dinner amidst significant delays. Originally bound for Delhi, Flight 2195 faced operational issues, resulting in delays ranging from 12 to 18 hours.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi expressed concern over the incident, highlighting the possibility of passengers facing additional charges for their unique dining experience. Chaturvedi criticized the situation, emphasizing the need for better passenger treatment during such unforeseen circumstances.
Various social media users shared the video, with one reporting passengers dining next to the IndiGo plane, highlighting the unusual nature of the situation. Another user raised safety concerns, citing dissatisfaction regarding the treatment of women travellers. The flight, initially from Goa to Delhi, faced a 20-hour delay before being redirected to Mumbai.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another controversial video showing a passenger assaulting an IndiGo pilot during an announcement about a delayed flight to Goa at Delhi airport. IndiGo addressed the assault, confirming that a passenger had assaulted the co-pilot, and the matter was referred to an independent internal committee for potential inclusion in the “no-fly list.”
Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia condemned the unruly behaviour, emphasizing that such actions will be dealt with strongly. In response to recent incidents, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a standard operating procedure (SOP) for airlines. The SOP aims to enhance communication and passenger facilitation during flight cancellations and delays caused by adverse weather conditions.
The aviation industry faces scrutiny as incidents of unruly behaviour and operational challenges continue to impact passengers, prompting authorities to implement measures for improved passenger experiences and safety.
