A technical glitch in London’s air traffic control (ATC) system has disrupted international air services, affecting hundreds of flights to and from UK airports. Several flights have been cancelled or diverted due to the disruption.Air India flight AI-131, operating from Mumbai to London, was among the affected flights. The aircraft, carrying more than 246 passengers, including several from Ahmedabad, was diverted to Zurich instead of landing in London.
Flight Diverted After Departure
The passengers reached the airport on Tuesday morning, and AI-131 departed for London at around 1.30 pm. However, while the aircraft was en route, the ATC disruption in London forced the flight to divert to Zurich.The aircraft subsequently landed at Zurich Airport, but passengers faced further delays.
Passengers Forced to Spend Night at Airport
After landing in Zurich, passengers were initially asked to remain inside the aircraft. The flight was later cancelled, following which all passengers were asked to disembark and moved into the airport.
Passenger Sanjay Suryabali said the passengers were still at Zurich Airport and were awaiting further information. Airport authorities arranged tea and snacks, but the prolonged wait caused considerable inconvenience.Some passengers reportedly spent the night sleeping on airport benches and the floor while waiting for information about their onward journey.
Air India Faces Fresh Operational Challenge
The disruption has added to Air India’s operational difficulties on international routes. Passengers travelling on AI-131 are now waiting for clarity on when they will be flown to London and what alternative arrangements will be made.An announcement regarding the passengers’ onward journey is awaited.