Passengers aboard an IndiGo flight from Bengaluru to Ranchi were left stranded inside the aircraft for three hours without air conditioning after a technical glitch delayed the departure. The incident occurred on Sunday, July 16, when flight 6E 216 was scheduled to depart from Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru.
Technical Glitch and Delay
According to airport officials, the aircraft experienced a technical issue shortly before boarding was completed. Passengers were already seated inside the plane when the problem was detected. The airline crew informed passengers about the glitch and assured them that engineers were working to resolve it.
However, as the delay stretched on, the air conditioning system was turned off, leading to discomfort among passengers. The cabin temperature reportedly rose significantly, causing distress, especially among elderly passengers and children.
Passengers' Ordeal
One passenger, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “We were stuck inside the aircraft for nearly three hours without any air conditioning. It was extremely uncomfortable and suffocating. The crew kept saying that the issue would be resolved soon, but there was no clear communication.”
Another passenger expressed frustration over the lack of basic amenities. “We were not offered water or any refreshments during the wait. The airline should have allowed us to deplane while the problem was being fixed,” they added.
Airline Response
In a statement, IndiGo confirmed the technical glitch and apologized for the inconvenience. “Flight 6E 216 from Bengaluru to Ranchi experienced a technical issue prior to departure. Engineers worked to rectify the problem, and the flight departed after a delay of approximately three hours. We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers,” the airline said.
IndiGo also stated that passengers were provided with refreshments once they deplaned, though some passengers disputed this claim. The airline did not specify the nature of the technical glitch.
Regulatory Scrutiny
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken note of the incident and is likely to seek a report from the airline. Such incidents have raised concerns about passenger comfort and safety during prolonged ground delays.
Under DGCA norms, airlines are required to provide adequate facilities, including air conditioning and refreshments, in case of delays exceeding two hours. The regulator may impose a penalty if the airline is found to have violated these norms.
Industry Context
This is not the first time IndiGo has faced criticism over passenger handling during delays. In recent months, several incidents of passengers being stuck in aircraft without basic amenities have been reported across various airlines in India. Aviation experts have called for stricter enforcement of passenger rights.
“Airlines must prioritize passenger welfare, especially during unforeseen delays. Proper communication and facilities are essential to mitigate discomfort,” said an aviation analyst.
