Delhi airport clarifies IndiGo flight diversion after Omar Abdullah's complaint

The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) had provided several weather advisories, warning passengers that flights could face unexpected delays.

Updated on: Apr 20, 2025, 23:04:18 IST

By HT News Desk

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The Indira Gandhi International Airport authorities on Sunday addressed the diversion of a Delhi-bound IndiGo flight carrying Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah, citing operational issues due to infrastructure work and changes in wind patterns.

Omar Abdullah lashed out at the Delhi airport for his flight being diverted to Jaipur (@OmarAbdullah/X)

The Delhi airport authorities took to X to respond to the Jammu and Kashmir CM's complaint after his flight was diverted, leading him to land in Delhi at 3 am.

Also Read: Dulat has habit of peddling lies to sell his books: Omar

In their reply, they said, “Dear Mr. Abdullah, as you may be aware, we've issued several advisories regarding the unseasonal changing wind patterns in Delhi. Runway 10/28 has been closed for ILS upgradation since 8th April, following consultation with all stakeholders and based on historical wind patterns.”

"Additionally, the shift toward more easterly winds and the use of converging runways for easterly arrivals have led to temporary capacity constraints during this upgrade. These conditions, at times, result in flight diversions to ensure passenger safety. We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused," they added.

Also Read: Omar Abdullah blasts Delhi Airport after his IndiGo flight gets diverted to Jaipur: ‘Bloody s**t show’

On their X account, the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) had provided several weather advisories, warning passengers that flights could face unexpected delays as a result. They had also stated that diversions had been necessary to ensure passenger safety.

They had also asked all passengers to remain in contact with the airline of their flight to get specific updates.

Omar Abdullah's complaint

Earlier in the day, Omar Abdullah had expressed his frustration with the IGI airport authorities, stating that there had been no communication about how long it would take for his flight to reach Delhi following a diversion to Jaipur.

Also Read: Omar, Mehbooba call SC’s interim order on Waqf Act much-needed intervention

In a post on X, he said, “Delhi airport is a bloody shit show (excuse my French but I’m in no mood to be polite). 3 hours in the air after we left Jammu we get diverted to Jaipur & so here I am at 1 in the morning on the steps of the plane getting some fresh air. I’ve no idea what time we will leave from here.”

He later added, “In case anyone is wondering, I got to Delhi just after 3:00 am.”

IndiGo has not issued an official statement yet.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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