Did an Air India Express Flight from Delhi to Jammu Return Midway Due to Suspected GPS Interference?

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Did an Air India Express Flight from Delhi to Jammu Return Midway Due to Suspected GPS Interference?

Synopsis

An Air India Express flight faced a serious issue as it turned back to Delhi due to possible GPS interference. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding technology in aviation safety. Discover the details behind this unsettling event and its implications for air travel.

Key Takeaways

  • Air India Express redirected flight due to GPS concerns.
  • Alternative transport arranged for affected passengers.
  • Incident highlights aviation safety protocols.
  • Another flight faced baggage issues at Patna Airport.
  • Customer care emphasized amidst challenges.

New Delhi, June 23 (NationPress) An Air India Express flight originating from Delhi and bound for Srinagar via Jammu returned to the national capital before reaching its intended destination due to a case of suspected GPS interference.

As per official reports, flight IX-2564 was scheduled to land in Jammu around noon, but instead, it circled above the airport for a while before the pilot decided to head back to Delhi.

The aircraft had already completed multiple loops within the Jammu airspace prior to its return.

An Air India Express spokesperson stated: "Our Delhi–Jammu flight was redirected to Delhi as a safety measure due to a suspected GPS interference incident. An alternative flight was promptly arranged to transport passengers to Jammu. We apologize for the inconvenience.”

The airline further mentioned that GPS signal interference incidents have been reported while flying over certain sensitive areas.

This occurrence follows a significant incident at Patna Airport involving another Air India Express flight just a day earlier.

Flight IX2936, arriving from Bengaluru to Patna with 180 passengers, landed at approximately 8:30 a.m. on Sunday.

Passengers reported that after both flights landed, announcements were made regarding the baggage belt numbers for luggage pickup.

However, many were dismayed to find their checked baggage missing.

Post-landing, an announcement directed all passengers to collect their luggage from Belt No. 4.

But as they waited, no baggage appeared. Upon inquiry, airline personnel explained that the luggage had not been loaded due to weight restrictions.

This situation caused unrest among passengers, leading to protests at the airport, according to media reports.

Interventions by Air India Express ground staff and CISF officials were needed to soothe the agitated passengers.

Many travelers were notably distressed, particularly those with connecting flights, which exacerbated their challenges, the report indicated.

Media reports state that the airline staff collected contact information from affected passengers and assured them that their bags would be delivered to their residences.

Point of View

It is crucial to remain vigilant regarding aviation safety protocols. Incidents such as the suspected GPS interference on the Air India Express flight underscore the need for robust systems and procedures to ensure passenger safety. The airline's swift response in arranging an alternative flight showcases commitment to customer care, even amidst challenging situations.
NationPress
23/06/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the Air India Express flight to return to Delhi?
The flight returned due to suspected GPS interference, which raised safety concerns.
Was there any impact on passengers due to the flight's return?
Yes, passengers faced delays, but the airline arranged an alternative flight to Jammu.
What happened at Patna Airport with another Air India Express flight?
Passengers reported missing baggage due to weight restrictions on the aircraft, causing unrest.
How did Air India Express handle the situation?
The airline collected contact details from affected passengers and promised to deliver their luggage.
Are GPS interference incidents common in aviation?
Instances of GPS signal interference have been reported in sensitive regions, but safety measures are in place.