IndiGo addresses viral video of pilot refusing to operate Pune-Bengaluru flight
PTC News Desk: On September 24, an IndiGo flight from Pune to Bengaluru faced a significant five-hour delay after the pilot refused to operate the flight, citing the expiration of his duty hours. This incident gained considerable attention on social media after a user on X (formerly Twitter) shared a video depicting frustrated passengers confronting both the pilot and the IndiGo crew regarding the extended delay.
In the viral footage, a passenger can be seen pleading with the pilot to exit the cockpit and explain the situation. The pilot’s response was to close the cockpit door, prompting a female passenger to comment, “So this is how they close the door because they have no answer.” The frustration among passengers was palpable as they sought clarification on the situation.
IndiGo flight 6E from Pune to Bengaluru delayed for 5 hours after the pilot refused to take off due to his work hours ending.Passengers were left stranded with no refreshments, no compensation.Absolute disregard for customer service. How can this be allowed? @IndiGo6E @DGCAIndia pic.twitter.com/WCDFtrqNwR
— Ayush Kumar (@ayushux) October 1, 2024
Ayush Kumar, the individual who posted the video, expressed his discontent with IndiGo’s handling of the situation, stating, “IndiGo flight 6E from Pune to Bengaluru delayed for 5 hours after the pilot refused to take off due to his work hours ending. Passengers were left stranded with no refreshments, no compensation. Absolute disregard for customer service. How can this be allowed?”
In response to the uproar, IndiGo released a statement clarifying that the delay was attributed to operational reasons related to flight duty time limitations. The airline emphasized its commitment to passenger communication, stating, “Customers were kept informed about the delay and our team was available throughout the duration to assist customers. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.”
This incident follows another recent controversy involving IndiGo, where a video surfaced showing a group of passengers berating ground staff at an airport, further amplifying scrutiny of the airline’s customer service practices. As complaints about delays and service continue to mount, IndiGo faces challenges in maintaining its reputation in the highly competitive airline industry.