Efforts underway to bring relief to passengers stranded in Russia’s Magadan after Air India flight diversion
In a challenging situation for Air India, a replacement aircraft bound for Magadan, Russia, to rescue stranded passengers has encountered regulatory issues, causing a delay in the operation. The incident unfolded when an Air India flight en route to San Francisco from New Delhi had to be diverted to Magadan on Tuesday due to an engine problem.
The remote location of Magadan, situated over 10,000 km away from Russia’s capital, Moscow, has posed additional difficulties for both the affected passengers and the airline. With limited hotel accommodations in the area, Air India passengers have been temporarily housed in dormitories while they await their departure.
Keeping a close eye on the situation, the Civil Aviation Ministry announced today that a relief aircraft will depart from Mumbai at 1 pm local time to transport the stranded passengers from Magadan to San Francisco. The ministry assured that Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia is closely monitoring the events, and communication with the airline is ongoing.
Air India has taken prompt action to address the situation by dispatching a relief aircraft, specifically a B777-200LR with the registration VT-ALF, equipped with personnel and necessary resources for the recovery of the affected aircraft (VT-ALH). The relief aircraft, VT-ALF, is scheduled to transport passengers from Magadan to San Francisco International Airport. The tentative departure time from Mumbai is set for 1 pm IST.
Furthermore, Air India has confirmed that the welfare of the passengers is being taken care of, with the local government assisting in providing accommodation. Passengers have been relocated to a nearby school close to the airport for their convenience. The Indian embassy has also been contacted to offer support by providing food and essentials to the stranded passengers.
The United States government has expressed its concern over the situation, stating that it is closely monitoring the developments. The exact number of U.S. citizens onboard the flight remains unconfirmed at this time, as stated by U.S. State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel. However, it is highly likely that American citizens were among the passengers on the flight. Air India has reported that they are sending a replacement aircraft to ensure the passengers can continue their journey, although further details should be obtained from the airline directly.
The Air India flight in question was carrying a total of 216 passengers and 16 crew members, highlighting the significance of expediting the rescue operation and ensuring their safe return.
As the situation unfolds, Air India, in coordination with regulatory authorities and the support of local agencies, is making every effort to address the challenges faced in bringing relief to the stranded passengers in remote Magadan.