Pune to Bengaluru IndiGo Flight Delayed by 5 Hours, Viral Video Shows Passengers Anger

Viral Video: An IndiGo pilot recently refused to fly a Pune-Bangalore flight, citing his duty hours were over, and causing a 5-hour delay of flight 6E 361. The flight, originally scheduled to depart at 12.45 am, eventually took off at 5.44 am and landed in Bengaluru at 6.49 am. 

A video went viral on social media, capturing passengers voicing their frustration at both the pilot and IndiGo crew. Sources indicate that the pilot stated operating the flight would exceed his permissible working hours. In the footage, the pilot is seen shutting the cockpit door after passengers demanded an explanation.

A passenger, Lokesh MK, posted on X, "@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, posted on X along with a video showing the passengers' outrage. His tweet read, "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. Absolute disregard for customer service. How can this be allowed? @IndiGo6E @DGCAIndia."

Social media reactions were mixed, with some users backing the passengers while others defended the pilot, urging IndiGo’s management to take responsibility.

Numerous passengers turned to X to voice their dissatisfaction with the airline. 

In response to the controversy, IndiGo confirmed the delay and released a statement on September 30, stating, "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 the duration to assist customers. We apologise for any inconvenience caused."