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Passengers traveling to Gulf nations faced turmoil as Air India Express abruptly canceled over 86 flights due to more than 300 cabin crew members calling in sick. Angry flyers staged protests at airports in Delhi, Kochi, Kozhikode, and Thiruvananthapuram, demanding answers and immediate solutions.
Videos circulating on social media depict frustrated passengers engaged in heated arguments with airport staff after being informed of last-minute flight cancellations. Many travelers, especially those heading to the Gulf, expressed concerns about potential job loss due to delayed flights jeopardizing their work visas.
@AirIndiaX @TataCompanies around Four AirIndia Express Flights Delayed from Calicut … As per the officials there is a strike happening from the Crew members. Only Muscat flight is boarded and other flights are not yet updated the time.#mediaone #AirIndiaExpress#Elecciones24 pic.twitter.com/fsbuE9iTXk
— hisham backer (@HishamBacker) May 7, 2024
Some passengers criticized the airline for not providing accommodation, leaving them stranded until their rescheduled flights. Reports emerged of individuals spending the night at airports due to the sudden disruptions.
In one instance, a group of passengers at the Air India Express counter in Delhi was seen voicing their grievances to a ground official, highlighting the widespread discontent among affected travelers.
Delhi Airport Kalesh (Air India Express cancelled 3 flights to Goa, Guwahati and Srinagar last moment and refused to provide any alternatives. So,Kalesh ensued) pic.twitter.com/TdIJlMhmTt
— Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) May 8, 2024
Air India Express attributed the flight cancellations to a significant number of cabin crew members reporting sick and switching off their phones. Sources suggest that the crew is protesting against new employment terms and compensation following the airline’s merger with Tata Group.
In response, an Air India Express spokesperson acknowledged the disruptions and assured passengers that efforts were underway to address the situation and minimize inconvenience. However, the airline’s failure to provide timely explanations and solutions has left passengers frustrated and anxious about their travel plans and job security.
