Rajkot Airport faced major disruptions this morning due to a technical issue with the electronic check-in system. Many passengers found themselves stranded at the airport, leading to a chaotic scene. The flight from Mumbai to Rajkot, Indigo Flight 6E 5321, had to be diverted to Vadodara. The flight could not land in Rajkot because it did not receive runway clearance.
Passengers were left confused and frustrated as airport officials, including the director, Mr Bohra, turned off their mobile phones and did not provide any updates. Indigo Airlines confirmed that the flight diversion was due to operational issues at the airport. However, some sources suggested that there was also a problem with fuel supply. Different officials gave varying reasons for the situation, adding to the confusion.
After about an hour and a half, the diverted flight was finally allowed to return to Rajkot. Earlier in the day, there was also a problem with Air India’s check-in system, forcing staff to handle check-ins manually. This added to the delays and discomfort for passengers.
The recent issues at Rajkot Airport come after a doctor posted a viral video showing inadequate air conditioning and mobile network coverage at the airport. Since its opening, the new Rajkot International Airport has faced criticism over various operational problems. The airport was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July 2023, after significant delays.
Rajkot International Airport, located at Hirasar, serves the Saurashtra region and was built at a cost of ₹2,654 crore. It is designed to handle modern aircraft and accommodate up to 1,800 passengers during peak hours. Despite its modern facilities, the airport’s recent operational issues have raised concerns about its management and readiness to serve passengers effectively.
Officials are under pressure to ensure that such problems do not happen again. Many passengers have expressed their disappointment with the handling of the situation, calling for better communication and support during disruptions. The airport has the potential to serve international flights by 2025, but it must first resolve its current issues to gain public trust.
In conclusion, the chaos at Rajkot Airport today highlights the need for better operational management and communication with passengers. As the airport begins to grow and serve more destinations, it is crucial for the authorities to address these challenges promptly.
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