SpiceJet Dubai Flights Delayed 24 Hours, Passengers Protest at Delhi Airport

<p>Passengers headed to Dubai found themselves stranded at Delhi airport for over 24 hours after two SpiceJet flights were delayed due to operational reasons, triggering angry protests inside the terminal.</p>
<p>The two affected flights, SG 5111 and SG 5105, were both grounded following what the airline described as the grounding of an aircraft. Flight SG 5111 was originally scheduled to depart on Monday at 7:45 am but was first rescheduled to 9 am on Tuesday. Flight SG 5105, which was due to leave at 6:45 pm on Monday, was pushed to 12:30 pm on Tuesday. At the time of reporting, neither flight had taken off.</p>
<p>Frustrated passengers staged sit-in protests both on Monday and Tuesday, raising slogans of 'SpiceJet chor hai' and 'SpiceJet haye haye', and demanding clear information on departure times along with food and accommodation. Sources said no SpiceJet staff were present to address passenger concerns for a considerable period. Airport staff eventually stepped in, providing food and water and setting up a rest area for the stranded travellers.</p>
<p>Videos circulating from the airport showed passengers confronting officials and questioning the absence of SpiceJet ground staff. In one video, a passenger recording the situation was told by an airport official that filming was not permitted. The exchange turned heated when the official raised his voice, further angering passengers who were already exhausted by the prolonged wait.</p>
<p>"You take the exit or refund. Nobody will go by flight. Please don't record video here. It is not allowed. You don't have the right," the official was heard saying.</p>
<p>The passenger pushed back, saying, "I was listening to you but you are yelling at me. This is totally unprofessional. No SpiceJet staff is available to answer our queries. We have spent lots of money on our flights."</p>
<p>In an official statement, SpiceJet said it deeply regretted the inconvenience caused. "SpiceJet flights SG 5111 and SG 5105, operating from Delhi to Dubai, have been delayed due to operational reasons following the grounding of an aircraft. Alternate flights are being arranged to accommodate the affected passengers, and the airline is making every effort to minimise the inconvenience caused," a spokesperson said.</p>