A Pune-bound flight operated by IndiGo Airlines encountered a delay of three hours on Wednesday when the pilot, moments before take-off from Patna, received distressing news about his grandmother's passing. The pilot was informed of this unfortunate development as the flight was preparing for take-off after leaving the parking bay.
Recognizing the emotional turmoil experienced by the pilot, the airline decided, in the best interest of the passengers, that he should not proceed with the flight. Consequently, alternative crew arrangements were made, a process that took some time. Meanwhile, to ensure the comfort of passengers during the delay, the airline provided refreshments.
Although no formal statement has been issued by IndiGo regarding this incident, it is noteworthy that the low-cost carrier has recently garnered media attention due to various instances of flight delays. On January 15, a video circulated online depicting a passenger assaulting the pilot of a Delhi-Goa IndiGo flight while he was addressing the passengers about a delay. The individual responsible for the assault was later apprehended by the Delhi Police.
In a separate incident, passengers were observed having dinner on the tarmac of Mumbai airport after an IndiGo flight experienced prolonged delays and was eventually diverted. The series of incidents has underscored the challenges and disruptions faced by the airline in recent times.
