VOIWORLD/Sumit Chaturvedi
Hundreds of Indian passengers planning to return home from Italy for Diwali were left stranded after Air India cancelled its Milan–Delhi flight (AI138) on Friday, citing technical reasons.
The airline confirmed that the flight, scheduled for October 17, 2025, was grounded “due to an extended technical requirement on the aircraft,” stressing that the decision was taken to “prioritise the safety of passengers and crew.”
While Air India has arranged hotel accommodations and meals for all affected passengers, the airline acknowledged that some were housed outside the immediate airport area due to limited availability.
According to an Air India spokesperson, travellers are being rebooked on alternative flights operated by Air India and other carriers on or after October 20, which coincides with the day of Diwali.
The airline also addressed the case of a passenger whose Schengen visa expires on Monday, saying the individual has been accommodated on another airline’s Sunday flight.
“We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused and reaffirm our commitment to passenger safety and comfort,” the spokesperson added.
The cancellation has left many disappointed, as several passengers were hoping to reunite with families in India ahead of the festive season.
