An Air India Express flight scheduled to depart from Hindon Airport on Sunday night, July 27, 2025, failed to take off due to a last-minute technical issue and the airport’s strict operational closure. The incident left nearly 200 passengers stranded, prompting the airline to offer hotel accommodation, complimentary rescheduling, and full refunds.
Flight IX 1512, bound for Kolkata, was cancelled after a technical issue was discovered following passenger boarding. The pilot informed travelers of the problem, and maintenance staff inspected the aircraft, focusing on the wings and wheels. Because Hindon Airport operates only from sunrise to sunset, the delay meant the flight could not depart until the next day.
Passengers were first taken by bus to Delhi Airport for a possible alternative flight, but no aircraft was available there. After returning to Hindon, travelers received hotel accommodation near the airport. Air India Express provided three main options: hotel stay until the next flight, free rescheduling, or a full refund for those who chose to cancel. The airline apologized publicly and promised to fly the passengers as soon as operations resumed on Monday morning.
An Air India Express spokesperson explained, “One of our flights from Hindon is operating with a delay as it could not take off following a technical issue and subsequent watch hour limitations at the airport. The flight will depart once the airport is available for commercial operations in the morning. We have provided guests with options including hotel accommodation, complimentary rescheduling, or cancellation with a full refund.”
Refunds and rescheduling can be requested through the Air India Express manage booking portal, customer support, or at the airport counter. Refunds are processed to the original payment method, and passengers can check their status online or by contacting support. Defence personnel with bookings up to May 31, 2025, are eligible for full refunds and a one-time waiver on rescheduling until June 30, 2025.
This event follows a similar technical issue on July 23, 2025, when another Air India Express flight returned to its origin shortly after takeoff. In both cases, the airline provided alternative arrangements and refreshments, showing a pattern of prioritizing passenger support during disruptions.
Hindon Airport’s watch hour limitations—set by the Airport Authority of India—mean any delay pushing a flight past sunset results in mandatory postponement. This policy, while ensuring safety, can cause significant inconvenience when technical issues arise late in the day.
Passengers affected by the recent cancellation reported frustration with the lack of immediate alternatives and limited facilities at Hindon Airport. Some shared their experiences on social media, calling for better communication and ground support during such events.
Aviation experts stress that technical issues, while disruptive, are handled with safety as the top priority. The airline’s response—offering refunds, rescheduling, and accommodation—meets regulatory standards and consumer protection rules.
For more information on airport operational hours and passenger rights, travelers can visit the Airport Authority of India’s official website. As reported by VisaVerge.com, Air India Express continues to focus on improving digital refund processes and customer support, especially at airports with restricted hours. Passengers are encouraged to use official channels for updates and support.
Learn Today
Air India Express → An Indian airline operating international and domestic flights, focusing on passenger and cargo transport.
Hindon Airport → A regional airport near Delhi with operational hours limited from sunrise to sunset.
Technical issue → A mechanical or system failure affecting an aircraft’s safety or performance before departure.
Watch hour limitations → Operational restrictions preventing flights from departing after sunset at Hindon Airport for safety.
Full refund → Reimbursement of the total ticket cost to the original payment method after flight cancellation.
This Article in a Nutshell
On July 27, 2025, Air India Express flight IX 1512 from Hindon Airport was canceled due to a technical fault and airport closure. Nearly 200 passengers received hotel stays, free rescheduling, or refunds, highlighting operational challenges and the airline’s commitment to passenger care during disruptions.
— By VisaVerge.com
