Indian passengers traveling from Mumbai to Manchester were stranded at Kuwait Airport for 13 hours after Gulf Air flight GF005 was unexpectedly diverted. The passengers have alleged severe neglect, claiming they were left without "food or help" during the ordeal. A video going viral on social media shows frustrated passengers arguing with airport authorities. In a tweet, the stranded passengers accused the airline of harassment, further alleging that Gulf Air provided accommodation only to travellers from the European Union, the UK, and the US.
Indian authorities have stepped in and are coordinating with Kuwait airport officials to arrange hotel accommodation for the stranded passengers, which include elderly individuals and children. Two waiting rooms have been provided for Indian and Pakistani nationals, and arrangements are being made for a flight to resume the onward journey after nine hours.
Flight Diverted Due To Engine Fire?
Some reports stated that the passengers claimed the flight took a U-turn before landing in Kuwait, with the announcement of the diversion coming just 20 minutes before the landing. Some reports quoted passengers as saying that one of the aircraft's engines had caught fire, which sparked further panic.
Gulf Air is yet to issue a statement regarding the incident.