Passengers of a private airline flight bound for Madinah from New Islamabad International Airport staged a strong protest after repeated delays and the aircraft's return due to a technical fault. Following negotiations, airline officials assured passengers they would be sent to Saudi Arabia on another aircraft on Wednesday morning. The passengers included elderly people, women, children and several employees who needed to return to their jobs. They eventually departed for their destination at around 10.30am on Wednesday after an alternate aircraft was arranged. Airport authorities, however, denied reports that passengers staged a sit-in on the runway, saying the situation developed briefly after the aircraft experienced a technical issue.
Details of the Incident
According to details, the situation became tense when passengers of Air Blue flight PA-2766 gathered near the aircraft bay and protested. Passengers told The Express Tribune that the flight was scheduled to depart for Madinah at 1pm on Tuesday and they had arrived at the airport three hours earlier. After boarding, they were informed that the aircraft had developed a technical fault and departure would be delayed by two hours. Later, they were repeatedly told more time was required.
Passenger Frustration
The delay caused significant frustration among the passengers, many of whom were traveling for religious purposes or to return to work. One passenger, who requested anonymity, said, "We were kept waiting for hours without proper information. The airline staff did not handle the situation well." Another passenger added, "We had elderly and children with us. It was very stressful."
Airline Response
Airline officials eventually intervened and assured the passengers that an alternate aircraft would be arranged. The passengers were accommodated in a hotel overnight and provided with meals. The alternate flight departed at 10.30am on Wednesday, ending the ordeal. A spokesperson for Air Blue stated, "We apologize for the inconvenience caused to our passengers. The technical issue was unforeseen, and we made every effort to minimize the delay."
Airport Authorities' Statement
Airport authorities clarified that there was no sit-in on the runway, as reported by some media outlets. A spokesperson for the Civil Aviation Authority said, "The situation was resolved quickly. Passengers were not on the runway at any point. They were near the aircraft bay, and the matter was resolved through dialogue." The authorities confirmed that all safety protocols were followed.
Impact on Passengers
The delay affected around 150 passengers, including families with young children and elderly individuals. Many had to rearrange their travel plans and inform employers or family members in Saudi Arabia about the change. The incident highlights the challenges faced by passengers when technical faults occur, especially on international flights with religious significance.
