Pune: Chaos at Airport as Baggage Belt Failure, Last Minute Flight Diversion Create Confusion and Delays
Pune | December 21, 2024
Published at 09:02 AM IST
Passengers at Pune Airport faced significant inconvenience this morning as the baggage belt at the new terminal’s check-in counter malfunctioned. The issue led to long queues, causing frustration among travelers and delays in flight operations.
Social media was abuzz with complaints from passengers. One user tweeted, “Utter chaos at Pune Airport today with baggage check-ins not working with @IndiGo6E and flights held up! People will miss connecting flights.” Another user expressed similar frustration, tagging the Airports Authority of India (@AAI_Official), “Flights getting delayed at Pune Airport as some baggage belt not working!!! This is so exasperating.”
Utter choas at pune airport today with baggage check-ins not working with @IndiGo6E and flights held up ! People will miss connecting flights
— SidShishoo🇮🇳 (@sidshishoo) December 21, 2024
In response, IndiGo Airlines issued an apology, stating, “Sir, we regret to note your disappointment. Further, your feedback is important to us & is duly noted for necessary review. We hope to serve you better in the times to come. Kindly reach out to our airport team for any real-time assistance. ~Nidhi.”
Meanwhile, an Air India Express flight (AXB 1675) from Chennai to Pune added to the airport’s chaotic situation. The flight was diverted to Hyderabad at the last minute, despite being close to Pune. Passengers on the flight endured nearly three hours in the air. The aircraft’s transponder reportedly squawked code 7700, indicating an emergency situation.
An Air India exp flight from Chennai to Pune has diverted to Hyd. Nearly 3 hrs in the air. pic.twitter.com/ywnbnMtG50
— Mahesh (@Hanumanbhakt000) December 21, 2024
What Does Squawking Code 7700 Mean?
The code 7700 is used universally by pilots to signal an emergency. When an aircraft squawks 7700, it alerts air traffic control that the aircraft is facing an urgent or critical issue requiring immediate attention. Details regarding the exact emergency on the Air India Express flight are awaited.
Travelers at Pune Airport have urged authorities to address the ongoing issues promptly to prevent further disruptions. The airport management and concerned airlines have yet to release an official statement on the situation.
