Amritsar: Passengers travelling from Amritsar to Dubai were left stranded and frustrated after a SpiceJet flight scheduled to depart on Sunday morning was repeatedly delayed, eventually being pushed to the early hours of August 31.
SpiceJet flight SG 5155, scheduled to leave Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport at 8:40 am, underwent several changes to its departure time. The latest flight status indicated that it would depart at around 2:15 am on August 31 — nearly 18 hours behind schedule.
Passengers complained that the airline failed to provide a clear explanation for the prolonged delay. One traveller said the airline’s customer helpline cited a technical problem, raising questions over why passengers were not informed earlier if the issue had already been known.
The extended delay disrupted passengers’ work commitments, onward connections and accommodation plans in Dubai. Travellers also alleged that SpiceJet failed to provide adequate alternative arrangements, including hotel accommodation, replacement tickets or other assistance during the prolonged wait.
Frustration boiled over at the airport as passengers gathered outside the SpiceJet counter and confronted airline staff. Protesters reportedly raised slogans and demanded clarity on when the aircraft would actually depart.
The absence of a firm departure assurance further intensified the situation, leaving passengers facing an overnight wait at the airport.
The incident has also raised concerns over how airlines handle passengers during lengthy operational disruptions, particularly when delays run into several hours and travellers have onward travel and accommodation arrangements depending on the scheduled flight.