Daijiworld Media Network- Ghaziabad

Ghaziabad, Jun 15: Passengers aboard an Air India Express flight from Hindon Airport to Kolkata faced an unexpected delay on Saturday after the aircraft developed a technical fault moments before takeoff.

Flight IX 1511, scheduled to depart from Hindon Airport in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghaziabad district, remained grounded on the runway for over an hour after the snag was detected. Hindon Airport, primarily used for defence purposes, has recently started limited civilian operations.

According to airport sources, the aircraft had already taxied to the runway and was moments away from departure when the crew noticed a technical issue. Ground engineers were promptly called to assess and rectify the problem, resulting in a significant delay.

An official spokesperson for Air India Express confirmed the delay, stating, “Our Hindon-Kolkata flight operated, with a delay, due to a snag on the originally assigned aircraft. Guests were offered complimentary rescheduling or cancellation with a full refund. We regret the inconvenience caused.”

Though the nature of the technical snag was not disclosed, airline officials ensured that safety protocols were thoroughly followed before the aircraft resumed operations.

The delay left several passengers waiting in uncertainty, though most acknowledged the airline’s proactive approach in offering alternatives and prioritising passenger safety. The incident highlights the operational challenges involved in integrating civil aviation services at defence-oriented airports.