IndiGo Airlines issued an apology on Saturday after passengers on a Delhi-Varanasi flight experienced severe discomfort due to a malfunction in the aircraft’s air conditioning system. According to IndiGo, while the AC was functioning, a sudden temperature shift caused the cabin to heat up, leading to distress among passengers.
The airline’s statement expressed regret for the inconvenience caused on flight 6E 2235, which was en route from Delhi to Varanasi on September 5, 2024. IndiGo explained that the temperature fluctuations were adjusted in response to passenger requests and that the cabin crew provided immediate assistance to those affected.
A video from the incident, which occurred on Thursday, shows passengers visibly uncomfortable. Reports indicate that several people fainted from the heat, while others tried to cool themselves using magazines.
This incident follows a similar event in June, when an IndiGo flight from Delhi to Bagdogra faced an AC failure for an hour. Passengers, including the elderly, experienced breathing difficulties due to the intense heat, and some described the situation as feeling like a ‘hijacking’.
In response to that June incident, IndiGo had stated, “IndiGo flight 6E 2521 between Delhi and Bagdogra was delayed due to high ground temperatures affecting operations. We prioritize passenger safety above all and are working to ensure a prompt departure. Passengers are being kept informed, and we apologize for the inconvenience caused by factors beyond our control.”