An Air India Express flight, IX 1511, scheduled to depart from Hindon Airport in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, to Kolkata, West Bengal, experienced an hour-long delay on Saturday, June 14, 2025, after a technical snag was detected. The incident occurred just as the aircraft was taxiing onto the runway, moments away from takeoff.
Hindon Airport, primarily utilized for defense purposes, has recently expanded its operations to include limited civilian flights. According to sources at the airport, the flight crew identified the technical issue, prompting them to immediately request the assistance of ground engineers. These engineers were then dispatched to assess and resolve the problem, leading to the delay.
An official spokesperson for Air India Express acknowledged the delay, stating that the Hindon-Kolkata flight was indeed affected due to a snag on the originally assigned aircraft. Passengers were offered options for complimentary rescheduling or full refunds, demonstrating the airline's commitment to minimizing inconvenience. The airline has not yet disclosed the specific nature of the technical problem. However, they emphasized that all safety protocols were rigorously followed before the aircraft was cleared to resume operations.
The delay caused uncertainty among passengers, but many appreciated the airline's proactive measures in offering alternatives and prioritizing their safety. This incident has brought to light some of the challenges associated with integrating civil aviation services into airports that are primarily designed and operated for defense purposes.
The incident underscores the importance of thorough pre-flight checks and the critical role of ground engineers in ensuring the safety and smooth operation of flights. While technical issues can occur unexpectedly, the prompt response and adherence to safety protocols are essential in mitigating potential risks and minimizing disruptions to passengers. Air India Express's handling of the situation, including offering flexible options to passengers, reflects an understanding of the inconvenience caused by such delays. Further investigation into the specific technical snag will likely follow to prevent similar incidents in the future and to refine maintenance procedures.
