SpiceJet Passengers Endure Hours of Heat Due to AC Failure on Delhi-Pune Flight

Over 100 passengers aboard a SpiceJet flight from Delhi to Pune endured several hours of extreme heat and humidity on Tuesday night after the aircraft's air-conditioning system malfunctioned shortly after boarding. The situation led to passenger protests and a substantial delay before a replacement flight could depart.

What Happened

The flight, scheduled to depart from Delhi at 9:55 pm, experienced an air-conditioning problem after passengers boarded around 10:30 pm. Passengers reported that the cabin became unbearably hot and humid, with sweat accumulating due to the closed doors and the aircraft's full capacity. Initial attempts to fix the issue by activating the AC resulted in hot air being blown into the cabin, exacerbating the discomfort. The situation escalated when the aircraft was moved towards the runway despite the unresolved technical problem, prompting passengers to demand a flight change and protest the airline's handling of the situation.

Key Facts

• More than 100 passengers were on the SpiceJet flight from Delhi to Pune on Tuesday night.
• The air-conditioning system failed shortly after passengers boarded the aircraft.
• The cabin became extremely hot and humid, described by passengers as "unbearable."
• Passengers protested after the aircraft was moved towards the runway despite the technical issue.
• A replacement flight eventually departed around 5 am, approximately seven hours after the original scheduled departure of 9:55 pm.
• A SpiceJet spokesperson stated that the incident involved a last-minute technical issue on flight SG 105 and that an alternate aircraft was arranged.
• Passenger Leshpal Javalge described the heat as feeling like a "gas chamber" and noted the difficulty for children, the elderly, and pregnant women.
• Passengers reported a lack of clear communication from airline staff regarding the problem.
• The protest involved the presence of approximately 100 to 150 CISF personnel.

Background

SpiceJet has faced scrutiny regarding its technical issues and operational handling in the past. This incident adds to concerns about passenger safety and comfort during air travel, particularly when technical malfunctions occur. The airline stated that it regrets the inconvenience caused to the passengers.