IndiGo Pune-Bengaluru Flight Delayed by 5 Hours After Pilot Refuses Takeoff; Frustrated Passengers’ Video Goes Viral

Ziya Khan 2 weeks ago

23 1 minute read

An IndiGo pilot recently declined to operate a Pune-Bangalore flight, citing that his duty hours had expired, resulting in a significant 5-hour delay for flight 6E 361. The flight, originally set to depart at 12:45 AM, ultimately took off at 5:44 AM and arrived in Bengaluru at 6:49 AM. The incident occurred on September 24, but it gained traction on social media after a video surfaced, capturing passengers voicing their frustrations toward both the pilot and the IndiGo crew.

As per the sources the pilot asserted that flying the aircraft would have exceeded his permissible working hours. In the viral video, the pilot is seen shutting the cockpit door after being called upon by passengers for an explanation.Public reactions on social media were mixed, with some supporting the disgruntled passengers while others defended the pilot, urging accountability from IndiGo’s management. Numerous passengers expressed their dissatisfaction on X. One user, Lokesh MK, tweeted, “@MoCA_GoI indigo flight getting delayed by 3 hours at Pune airport, flight number 6E 361 from Pune to Bengaluru, and no response kindly help on this immediate effect.”Another passenger, Ayush Kumar, shared a video showcasing the passengers’ outrage, 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. Others also vented out their frustrations sharing their thoughts on the microblogging site – X (formerly known as Twitter).

Absolute disregard for customer service. How can this be allowed? @IndiGo6E @DGCAIndia.”In response to the unfolding controversy, IndiGo confirmed the delay and released a statement on September 30. The airline explained, “Flight 6E 361 scheduled to operate from Pune to Bengaluru on September 24, 2024, was delayed due to operational reasons related to flight duty time limitations. Customers were kept informed about the delay, and our team was available throughout to assist. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.”