Mumbai/Delhi: Passengers on Air India flight AI1851 from Mumbai to Delhi faced an anxious delay on Wednesday afternoon after the aircraft remained stationary for nearly 45 minutes past its scheduled departure.
The Air India flight AI1851, originally scheduled to depart at 3:25 pm, reportedly stayed on the runway—or possibly a taxiway—without any announcements or explanations from the crew, leaving travelers frustrated and uncertain about the situation.
Passengers Voice Frustration
Several passengers took to social media platform X to express their dissatisfaction. Many criticized the airline for failing to provide timely updates, emphasizing that passenger time should be valued alongside ticket prices. One user noted that the Indian aviation sector needs stronger regulatory oversight to prevent such incidents.
However, some passengers pointed out that delays of up to 45 minutes are not uncommon during peak operational hours, and minor waiting times inside an aircraft can occur occasionally.
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Runway or Taxiway Debate
The incident sparked discussions online about whether the Air India flight AI1851 was on the runway. Aviation experts suggested that no plane can remain on Mumbai’s runway for such an extended period without affecting other operations, speculating that it may have been on a taxiway instead. Passengers also raised safety concerns, stressing that airlines must communicate clearly during all delays.
Awaiting Official Statement
As of now, Air India has not issued an official explanation for the delay. Passengers continue to seek clarity on the cause of the prolonged wait before take-off, urging the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the airline to address the matter.