Air India Apologizes, Refunds Passengers Stranded in Russia

NEW DELHI: Air India has issued an apology to passengers after one of its flights was diverted to Magadan in Russia due to a technical issue with one of its engines. The airline has taken responsibility for the incident and has offered to refund the tickets of all passengers aboard the flight, as well as providing them with travel vouchers.

"Please allow me to sincerely apologise, on behalf of Air India, for the extended delay in bringing you to San Francisco," said Rajesh Dogra, Air India's chief customer experience and ground handling officer, in a statement.

The affected flight was a Boeing 777 aircraft en route from New Delhi to San Francisco. It carried a total of 216 passengers and 16 crew members. However, due to a technical glitch, the plane had to make an emergency landing at Magadan Airport. Subsequently, the passengers and crew were accommodated in temporary arrangements in the remote Russian town.

In an effort to rectify the situation, Air India arranged for a replacement flight to transport the stranded passengers to San Francisco. The alternate flight successfully landed at San Francisco International Airport on the given day.

Air India's chief customer experience and ground handling officer, Rajesh Dogra, expressed his sincere apologies on behalf of the airline in a statement. He acknowledged the extended delay and assured passengers that their safety was the top priority throughout the incident. To compensate for the disruption and inconvenience caused, Air India has offered a full refund of the journey fare to all passengers. Additionally, they will receive a voucher for future travel with the airline. Although the airline cannot change the past, they hope that this gesture will convey their genuine regrets for the inconvenience caused.

The United States State Department was closely monitoring the situation as there were fewer than 50 US nationals among the passengers on the flight. It is customary for governments to oversee the welfare of their citizens during such incidents, ensuring they receive appropriate assistance and support.

Air India has issued a formal apology to passengers of the diverted flight, acknowledging the technical glitch and subsequent inconvenience. The airline has taken responsibility for the situation and is offering full ticket refunds and travel vouchers as a gesture of goodwill. The US State Department has also been involved in the matter, monitoring the situation and ensuring the well-being of its citizens aboard the flight.

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