In a troubling incident that has sparked widespread concern and criticism, a Dubai-Kozhikode flight was cancelled after passengers were reportedly locked inside the aircraft for over four hours without air conditioning. The incident, which occurred on July 16, 2025, has left passengers frustrated and raised serious questions about airline safety, customer care, and operational standards.
The flight in question was operated by Air India Express, one of India’s budget carriers, known for connecting various international destinations to Indian cities, particularly in the southern region.
A Routine Flight Turned Into a Nightmare
Passengers boarding the Air India Express flight from Dubai to Kozhikode expected a routine journey. Scheduled for departure at 1:30 PM local time from Dubai International Airport (DXB), the flight soon turned into a nightmare.
According to passenger accounts and social media posts, the aircraft doors were closed and passengers were strapped in by around 1:15 PM. But what followed was an unexplained delay that lasted over four grueling hours. During this time, the air conditioning system failed, leaving passengers including elderly individuals, children, and infants trapped in stifling heat.
No Ventilation, No Updates, No Relief
Multiple passengers shared videos and photos on social media, showing visibly distressed individuals fanning themselves with boarding passes and tissues. Some people were seen wiping sweat off children as others tried to calm anxious elderly travelers.
“There was no air circulation, and it felt like we were in an oven. We kept asking for updates but got vague responses or silence,” said Ramesh Krishnan, a passenger on board.
Many passengers claimed that despite repeated requests, crew members failed to provide clear communication about the reason for the delay. Bottled water and minor refreshments were handed out only after multiple complaints, with no medical assistance available for those who began to feel unwell.
Air India Express Responds
In an official statement released later that day, Air India Express confirmed that the Dubai-Kozhikode flight was cancelled due to a “technical glitch” in the air conditioning system.
“We deeply regret the inconvenience caused to our valued passengers. The delay was due to a technical issue with the aircraft’s air conditioning system, which needed engineering clearance before departure,” the statement read.
The airline added that the aircraft could not receive clearance for departure, and hence the flight was eventually cancelled. Passengers were offered alternate arrangements or refunds, depending on their preferences.
Outrage on Social Media
News of the incident quickly went viral on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. Hashtags like #AirIndiaExpress, #DubaiFlightHell, and #PassengersLockedIn trended throughout the day.
Many users criticized the airline for its “inhumane treatment” of passengers, demanding stricter regulations and better preparedness for such scenarios.
Some of the viral posts included:
- “My parents were stuck in this flight for 4 hours with no AC. They are both over 65. This is absolutely unacceptable. @DGCAIndia must act.”
- “How can you lock people inside a metal tube in the Dubai heat without AC and expect them to remain calm?”
DGCA Steps In
India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has reportedly taken note of the incident and launched a preliminary inquiry.
According to sources, the aviation watchdog is looking into:
- Whether crew followed proper protocol during the delay
- If passengers’ health and safety were compromised
- Why alternate arrangements were not made sooner
- If timely communication was maintained
The DGCA has also requested a detailed incident report from Air India Express and may consider penalties or corrective measures based on the findings.
Passenger Testimonies Paint a Grim Picture
Several passengers came forward to recount their harrowing experiences.
Elderly Passenger Struggles
Seema Nair, a 72-year-old traveler returning home after visiting her daughter in Dubai, began to feel dizzy due to the lack of airflow.
“I have asthma. I asked for medical help, but they said the cabin doors couldn’t be opened until clearance. It was terrifying,” she said.
Infants in Distress
A young mother, Neha Rahman, traveling with her 11-month-old baby, described how her child began crying uncontrollably.
“He was sweating nonstop. I didn’t know what to do. I had to use baby wipes just to cool him down.”
Foreign Tourists Confused and Panicked
Several non-Indian passengers who were unfamiliar with the language or the airline protocols appeared visibly distressed.
“There was no one to explain what was happening. We just sat there, waiting in the heat,” said a British tourist.
A Recurring Pattern?
Unfortunately, this is not the first time passengers have complained about operational lapses involving Air India Express. In recent years, the airline has faced criticism for delays, lack of onboard services, and technical snags.
In 2023, a similar incident occurred on a Sharjah-Kochi flight, where passengers were held on the tarmac for hours due to a technical fault. The recurring nature of such events raises questions about the maintenance standards and preparedness of budget carriers.
What the Law Says
According to aviation guidelines by the DGCA, no passenger should be made to sit inside a grounded aircraft for more than two hours without air conditioning or proper ventilation. If delays exceed this duration, airlines are required to:
- Allow passengers to deboard the aircraft
- Provide refreshments and medical aid
- Offer alternate flight arrangements or refunds
Legal experts suggest that affected passengers may be eligible for compensation, especially if health was compromised or service obligations were not met.
What Can Be Done Better?
The Dubai-Kozhikode flight cancellation incident has brought forward critical issues in airline management.
Transparent Communication
Keeping passengers informed goes a long way in maintaining trust. Silence and vague explanations only increase panic and frustration.
Contingency Planning
Technical issues are sometimes unavoidable, but airlines must have swift backup plans, whether it’s another aircraft, deboarding procedures, or medical support.
Passenger Rights Awareness
Most travelers are unaware of their rights. Airlines and regulatory bodies should ensure that passengers know what to expect and how to respond in such situations.
Technological Upgrades
Regular maintenance and modern aircraft systems can reduce the risk of technical failures.
Voices Calling for Reform
Several politicians, aviation analysts, and activists have commented on the situation. Kerala’s Transport Minister has reportedly sought a detailed explanation from Air India Express and has offered legal support to affected passengers.
A public petition demanding stricter checks on low-cost carriers has already gained over 25,000 signatures within 24 hours.
Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Airlines
The Dubai-Kozhikode flight cancelled due to AC failure and passenger lock-in is more than just a headline. It’s a warning. As air travel becomes more accessible, the responsibility to uphold safety, comfort, and transparency grows even more critical.
While Air India Express may have issued an apology and refunds, the emotional distress and potential health risks faced by passengers are hard to ignore. This incident must serve as a wake-up call for all airlines, especially budget carriers, to prioritize human dignity over operational convenience.
Passengers deserve better. And it’s time the aviation industry listened.
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