Hundreds of passengers traveling to India for Diwali were left stranded in Milan, Italy, on Friday. Air India cancelled flight AI138 to Delhi at the last minute. The flight was carrying 256 passengers and 10 crew members.

The airline said a “technical snag” on the aircraft forced the cancellation. Many passengers missed plans to celebrate Diwali in India on October 20.

Airline Cites Safety Concerns

Air India said it prioritised safety. “Flight AI138 from Milan to Delhi on 17 October was cancelled due to an extended technical requirement on the aircraft scheduled to operate the flight, prioritising the safety of all passengers and crew,” the airline said.

Rebookings and Hotel Arrangements

Air India arranged rebookings for all affected passengers. The airline provided hotel accommodations, though some hotels were far from the airport due to limited availability.

“All affected passengers have been provided hotel accommodations; however, due to limited availability, accommodations were arranged outside the immediate vicinity of the airport,” the airline said.

One passenger, whose Schengen visa expires on October 20, was rebooked on another airline departing Milan on October 19. “Specifically, one of the passengers, whose Schengen visa expires on 20 October, has been rebooked on another airline's flight departing Milan on 19 October to ensure compliance with her visa validity,” Air India added.

Air India Apologises

The airline offered ground support, including meals, to all passengers. Air India apologised for the disruption. “Air India continues to provide all necessary ground assistance, including meals, to all affected passengers. We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused and reaffirm our commitment to the safety and well-being of our passengers and crew,” the statement read.