Air India has come under scrutiny after facing extensive delays on two separate long-haul flights to San Francisco, much to the dissatisfaction of the passengers waiting to travel to the US.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India has issued a show-cause notice to Air India following the uproar on social media by affected passengers. The notice highlights the discomfort experienced by passengers and the airline’s failure to adhere to operational norms.
Flight 179, scheduled to depart from Mumbai to San Francisco on May 24th, encountered delays due to technical issues just before departure. Despite the airline’s priority on safety checks, the flight faced multiple setbacks leading to its cancellation and rescheduling for the following day.
Similarly, Flight 183 from Delhi to San Francisco on May 27th was delayed for over 30 hours, with passengers enduring discomfort due to a faulty air-conditioning system on the replacement aircraft. Allegations of inadequate passenger assistance and communication further added to the passengers’ frustration.
In response to the incidents, Air India has issued an apology and offered affected passengers a $350 voucher as a gesture of goodwill. The airline has promised to enhance its service quality and customer experience to prevent such incidents in the future.
Passengers took to social media to express their dismay, highlighting the need for better communication, prompt resolution of technical issues, and improved passenger welfare during delays. The airline’s reputation has been tarnished by the prolonged delays, emphasizing the importance of efficient operations and passenger satisfaction in the aviation industry.
Moving forward, Air India must address the root causes of these delays, implement effective contingency plans, and prioritize passenger well-being to regain trust and confidence among its customers. The incidents serve as a lesson for airlines worldwide to prioritize safety, operational efficiency, and customer service to uphold their reputation in the competitive aviation industry.
