Varanasi. The pilot of Indigo's Varanasi-Bangalore flight refused to fly the plane due to ear pain at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport on Monday. Due to this, 178 passengers had to wait for about five and a quarter hours. Passengers also created ruckus at the airport regarding the delay. Later, another pilot was called from Delhi and the plane was sent to Bengaluru.
The flight was to take off at 11:55
According to the airport administration, IndiGo flight number 6E 6559 was to take off from Varanasi for Bengaluru at 11:55 am with 178 passengers. Before the plane took off, the pilot complained of ear pain and refused to operate the flight. After this the passengers were deboarded from the plane and made to sit in the terminal building.
Passengers quarrel with employees
Passengers angry over the flight delay created a ruckus, accusing the airlines of negligence. During this time, some passengers also had a heated argument with the airline employees. To handle the situation, Indigo officials along with CISF personnel reached the spot and explained to the passengers.
Pilot found not fit to fly in medical examination
According to Airport Director Puneet Gupta, the plane had reached Varanasi from Bengaluru. The pilot's health deteriorated after landing. Medical examination found him not fit for flight operations. After this the airlines arranged for another pilot from Delhi. During this time, food was also arranged for the passengers.
Second case related to Indigo in a week
This is the second case within a week at Varanasi airport, when Indigo pilot refused to fly the plane. Earlier on Thursday, the pilot of Mumbai bound Indigo flight did not operate the flight due to completion of duty hours and need of rest as per rules. Even at that time, arrangements for a second pilot had to be made.