Passengers on a SpiceJet flight from Delhi to Darbhanga found themselves trapped in a stifling environment as the in-flight air conditioners remained switched off for over an hour. The incident occurred during a severe heatwave gripping Delhi, with the city experiencing its warmest night in 12 years. Videos shared by passengers on social media showcased the discomfort, with individuals visibly panting and sweating profusely within the packed airplane.
A passenger, speaking to news agency ANI, described the ordeal, stating that after checking in at Delhi airport, the air conditioning remained off for an hour, leaving the cabin at a scorching 40 degrees Celsius. Passengers reportedly resorted to using leaflets as fans to alleviate the discomfort, while repeatedly checking the air-conditioner vents above their seats. The air conditioning was eventually turned on only after the flight took off.
The incident highlights a concerning lapse in service and passenger comfort during a time of extreme heat. As of this report, SpiceJet has not issued a statement addressing the issue. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that heatwave conditions are expected to persist across much of North India, with Delhi experiencing some relief as a western disturbance approaches. The IMD has also indicated that heatwave conditions are prevalent in numerous parts of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, and north Madhya Pradesh.
Maximum temperatures in these regions have reached between 44 to 46 degrees Celsius. The current summer season in India is witnessing record-breaking heat, with multiple heatwaves pushing millions to their limits and leading to heat-related deaths across various states. This incident further underscores the urgent need for airlines to prioritize passenger safety and comfort, especially during extreme weather conditions.
