Flight Delay at Delhi Airport
Over 200 passengers on an Air India flight destined for Singapore encountered significant delays at Indira Gandhi International Airport due to a technical malfunction. The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, set to carry out flight AI2380 on September 10, 2025, suffered from cabin cooling and electrical issues, resulting in passengers being stranded both onboard and later in the terminal.
Passenger Experience
Passengers initially boarded the aircraft at around 11 PM but remained seated for nearly two hours before being asked to disembark. The air conditioning system was inoperative, causing uncomfortably high temperatures. Online videos depicted travelers using newspapers and magazines to fan themselves.
According to protocol, if an aircraft remains at the gate for an extended time with open doors, cooling can become less effective, adding to passenger discomfort. Air India confirmed the incident was due to a “cabin cooling issue on ground prior to departure,” resulting in the prolonged delay. Passengers were kept informed throughout the night, and refreshments were served at the terminal.
Resolution
A replacement aircraft was sourced, allowing the flight to depart Delhi at 05:36 AM IST. The airline expressed regret over the inconvenience to passengers and assured that basic needs were addressed during the delay.
Impact on Passengers
The delay affected many passengers’ onward travel plans and connections in Singapore. Despite efforts to minimize disruptions, the incident raised concerns about operational readiness and technical issue management on international flights.
Using a replacement aircraft was necessary to resume operations, as technical faults required a different solution. While spare aircraft are typically available, their deployment depends on various factors including fleet utilization and scheduling.
Similar Incident in Copenhagen
In a comparable situation, Air India passengers in Copenhagen, Denmark, experienced a flight cancellation due to a technical defect in another Boeing 787 aircraft. Approximately 250 passengers, including families and the elderly, were affected when flight AI158 was grounded on June 30, 2024, leaving them in temporary accommodations while awaiting updates.
The cancellation was announced several hours after passengers had gathered for an 8:45 PM departure, leading to frustration among travelers due to inadequate communication and challenges in accessing appropriate meals.
Accommodation and Meals
Passengers were provided with local hotel accommodations described as hostel-style, which posed challenges for families and elderly guests. Meal vouchers were given for use at a nearby mall, yet options were limited, especially for those with dietary restrictions like Jain passengers who found it difficult to obtain suitable food.
Air India acknowledged the situation, offering hotel stays, meals, and options for refunds or rescheduling. They confirmed efforts to mitigate guest inconvenience, with a revised flight schedule anticipated soon.
