A Thai Lion Air flight, a Boeing 737, bound for Bangkok from Kolkata airport, returned before takeoff due to a flap malfunction. The flight was cancelled for safety reasons, leading to passenger frustration.
Kolkata: A Thai Lion Air flight from Kolkata to Bangkok encountered a sudden technical issue on Saturday. The Boeing 737 aircraft was scheduled to depart from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, but a malfunction related to the flaps was discovered before takeoff, leading to the cancellation of the flight. There were a total of 130 passengers and seven crew members on board. Following the incident, considerable frustration was observed among the passengers, with dissatisfaction also expressed towards the airline staff.
Flight Returned Before Takeoff
According to officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the flight was scheduled to depart for Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok at 2:35 AM on Saturday. However, during pre-flight checks, a malfunction was detected in the aircraft's flap system. Recognizing the seriousness of the issue, the pilot decided to return the aircraft to the parking stand before takeoff. The aircraft was then taken to the parking bay, and an inspection was initiated.
Flap Malfunction Poses a Significant Risk
In a Boeing 737 aircraft, flaps are a crucial technical component that provides additional lift to the aircraft's wings during takeoff and landing. If this system does not function correctly, it can directly affect the balance and control of the aircraft during flight. This is the reason why, considering the severity of the issue, the decision was made to completely cancel the flight. Airport officials also stated that this step was necessary for the safety of the passengers.
Passengers Expressed Anger
When the passengers were informed about the cancellation of the flight, they expressed significant dissatisfaction. Several passengers questioned the airline staff and expressed their anger at the counter. Some passengers, after waiting until late at night, expressed their displeasure regarding the cancellation. However, the airline clarified to the passengers that the flight was cancelled due to technical reasons and that their safety was being prioritized.
Airline Issued a Statement
An official from Thai Lion Air stated that no compromise could be made with passenger safety. Continuing the flight with a flap system malfunction would have been risky, so it was decided to postpone the flight until technical checks and repairs were completed. They also mentioned that passengers would be offered rebooking or refund options and that the company was taking their inconvenience seriously.
