Delhi-Patna Air India Express Flight Diverted To Varanasi Due To Bad Weather Conditions

Varanasi: An Air India Express flight travelling from Delhi to Patna was diverted to Varanasi due to bad weather conditions in Bihar's capital city. According to reports, Air India Express flight IX1014, which was originally scheduled to land in Patna, was redirected to Varanasi as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of the passengers and crew.

As per the officials, the decision to divert the flight was made after assessing the weather conditions in Patna, which were deemed unsuitable for a safe landing. After sensing that the weather conditions were not favourable for landing, the pilot opted to divert the flight to Varanasi, prioritising the safety of everyone on board, an official of the airline stated. 

The airline spokesperson said, "Due to adverse weather conditions, one of our flights to Patna was diverted briefly to Varanasi. When the weather improved, the flight resumed and landed in Patna. We regret the delay caused by circumstances beyond our control."

The passengers on board the flight were concerned when they learned about the diversion. However, the airline's crew members kept them informed about the situation and ensured their safety and comfort throughout the unexpected detour. The passengers were provided with necessary assistance and support, minimising any inconvenience caused by the diversion, the official said. 

Technical Issue Forces Flight To Return To Delhi

Earlier in the week, on Monday, another Air India Express flight from Delhi to Ranchi had to return to the national capital shortly after takeoff due to a suspected technical issue. The Boeing 737 Max 8 plane was scheduled to land at Ranchi's Birsa Munda Airport at 6.20 pm. After inspection and clearance, the aircraft continued its normal operations. The airline spokesperson said, "One of our flights returned to Delhi after take-off due to a suspected technical issue. Post inspections and clearance, the aircraft continued scheduled operations. We regret the inconvenience."

Air India Cancels Several Flights

In a separate incident, Air India cancelled several international and domestic flights on Friday due to increased aircraft checks, bad weather, and airspace restrictions. Affected flights included services between Dubai, Chennai, Delhi, Melbourne, Pune, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. According to an Air India statement, "Air India's international flights AI906 from Dubai to Chennai; AI308 from Delhi to Melbourne; AI309 from Melbourne to Delhi; AI2204 from Dubai to Hyderabad and domestic flights AI874 from Pune to Delhi; AI456 from Ahmedabad to Delhi; AI-2872 from Hyderabad to Mumbai and AI571 from Chennai to Mumbai have been cancelled due to enhanced maintenance and operational reasons."

The airline has offered full refunds or free rescheduling and is helping passengers with alternate travel plans. "We regret the inconvenience caused to passengers. Our colleagues on the ground are making alternative arrangements for them to fly to their respective destinations at the earliest. Full refunds on cancellation or complimentary rescheduling have been offered to passengers," it said.

Further details regarding the diverted Air India Express flight to Varanasi are awaited.