Passengers travelling from Guwahati to Delhi on an IndiGo flight on the morning of May 20 alleged severe discomfort and poor handling after being kept inside the aircraft for more than two hours without proper air conditioning during a delayed takeoff at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International (LGBI) Airport.
The incident triggered frustration among travellers and once again raised concerns over passenger handling during flight disruptions at Guwahati airport.
Passengers on an IndiGo flight from Guwahati to Delhi alleged severe discomfort after being kept inside the aircraft for over two hours without proper air conditioning during a delayed departure.
Flight Delayed at Guwahati Airport
According to information available on IndiGo’s website:
- Flight 6E 6304
- Scheduled departure: 6:20 AM
- Actual takeoff: 8:57 AM
The prolonged delay reportedly unfolded while passengers were already seated inside the aircraft at Guwahati airport.
Passengers Allege Suffocation and Discomfort
Several passengers claimed they were left without clear communication regarding the delay.
Speaking about the incident, passenger Hemant Kumar Sethi Jain, who was travelling with his wife, alleged:
“We were kept sitting inside the aircraft for more than two hours without proper air conditioning, causing severe discomfort, suffocation, irritation, and harassment to passengers, including senior citizens, women, and children.”
The situation reportedly led to growing frustration inside the cabin.
Complaints Over Lack of Communication
Passengers further alleged that repeated requests made to airline staff initially received no proper explanation regarding:
- The cause of the delay
- The expected waiting duration
- Ventilation and cooling issues inside the aircraft
According to travellers, tensions escalated after prolonged waiting inside the aircraft.
Aircraft Gate Opened After Protests
Passengers claimed that it was only after persistent complaints and verbal exchanges with crew members that the aircraft’s gate was eventually opened.
Following this:
- Several passengers reportedly chose to deplane
- Others remained onboard, awaiting departure clearance
The incident created confusion among travellers at Guwahati airport during the early morning hours.
Technical Issue Reportedly Caused Delay
Sources told GPlus that the delay was allegedly linked to:
- A technical issue involving the Ground Power Unit (GPU)
The issue was reportedly fixed later, allowing the flight to eventually depart.
Reboarding Allegation Refuted by IndiGo
Some passengers alleged that individuals who deboarded the aircraft were later not permitted to re-enter for takeoff.
However, an IndiGo spokesperson reportedly denied these allegations.
Aviation Protocols Complicate Reboarding
Sources familiar with civil aviation procedures stated that when passengers deplane after boarding:
- Airlines may need to repeat security and baggage verification procedures
- Fresh clearance processes become necessary before departure
This can significantly delay flight operations further.
Growing Passenger Concerns at Guwahati Airport
The incident has sparked fresh discussion among Guwahati travellers regarding:
- Passenger communication during delays
- Emergency handling inside the aircraft
- Airport operational preparedness during technical disruptions
Frequent flyers have increasingly demanded more transparency and passenger-friendly handling during prolonged delays.
Summer Heat Adds to Discomfort
With Guwahati currently experiencing rising humidity and warmer temperatures, inadequate ventilation inside parked aircraft can quickly create distress, especially for:
- Senior citizens
- Children
- Passengers with medical conditions
What Happens Next
While the flight eventually departed for Delhi, the incident is likely to reignite conversations around airline accountability and passenger comfort standards during delays at Guwahati airport.
No official statement regarding compensation or further review had been issued at the time of reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which flight was delayed?
IndiGo flight 6E 6304 from Guwahati to Delhi.
How long was the delay?
The flight reportedly departed over two hours later than scheduled.
What caused the delay?
Sources indicated a technical issue involving the Ground Power Unit (GPU).