Patna: SpiceJet flight SG-3453, scheduled to fly from Patna to Guwahati on Thursday, was suddenly canceled, leading to chaos at the airport. Frustrated passengers created a ruckus, demanding alternate arrangements, while some even clashed with airline staff and security personnel after filming videos of the situation.
The cancellation affected around 60 passengers, many of whom were returning home after taking a holy dip at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. Several travelers had already checked in when they received a message at 12:50 PM informing them about the cancellation, even though the flight was scheduled to take off at 1:35 PM.
Following the announcement, passengers approached the airline counter demanding tickets for the next day’s flight, accommodation for the night, and food arrangements. However, SpiceJet staff refused their demands, offering either a full refund or the option to book seats for the next available flight based on availability.
With no alternative flights on the same day, stranded passengers, including children and elderly travelers, faced severe inconvenience. Some passengers were seen crying due to hunger and thirst, while others demanded the airline make arrangements as per DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) guidelines. However, SpiceJet employees declined to provide any assistance beyond ticket refunds or rebooking.
According to sources, the Patna-Guwahati flight had initially taken off from Bagdogra but suffered a bird-hit while en route. The impact damaged the aircraft’s windshield, forcing an emergency landing at Bagdogra Airport. Since the windshield required replacement with a part from Mumbai, the airline had no choice but to cancel the flight.
Hey @flyspicejet my wife was traveling from Guwahati to Patna the flight landed at Bardogra airport due to technical issue and now you de board her from light and Suggested to book another flight? Now how can she manage to go home alone? &Very pathetic response from spicejet staf
— 🇮🇳 🚩🇮🇳 BAUJI 🇮🇳🚩🇮🇳 (@pksinghk7) February 6, 2025
The sudden cancellation without proper arrangements left many passengers stranded in Patna, raising concerns over passenger rights and airline accountability.
