Pune, January 13, 2026 – Passengers on an Akasa Air flight from Pune to Bengaluru experienced an unexpected disruption on Tuesday morning when a routine domestic flight was delayed due to a technical issue discovered just before take-off. The incident, which forced travellers to disembark after nearly 90 minutes inside the aircraft, caused frustration and inconvenience for those on board, highlighting the challenges airlines face in maintaining operational safety alongside punctuality.

The flight, operated on a Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and designated QP1312, was scheduled to depart from Pune airport at 8:50 am, with boarding commencing around 8:10 am. According to passengers on the flight, the boarding process was completed smoothly, and the aircraft was preparing to taxi to the runway when a last-minute technical fault was identified. Following the discovery, the airline decided to offload all passengers from the aircraft, requiring them to disembark and wait for further instructions.

A passenger who was on board described the situation as “chaotic,” noting that travellers were initially kept informed that the flight was delayed due to operational constraints. Passengers spent approximately 90 minutes inside the aircraft before being asked to leave, with announcements citing a revised departure time of 1:15 pm. While the delay created discomfort, airline staff worked to manage the situation and provide updates to passengers.

Later in the day, Akasa Air issued an official statement clarifying that the delay was due to a technical issue with the aircraft. The statement read: “The flight scheduled to operate from Pune to Bengaluru on January 13 was held back as the aircraft underwent necessary technical inspections. Passenger safety remains our utmost priority, and we have ensured all protocols were followed before clearance for departure. The flight is expected to take off at 1:15 pm once the checks are completed.”

The airline also announced measures to minimise passenger inconvenience. Travellers were offered options to shift to evening services, and those choosing not to travel were entitled to full refunds, with the refund process reportedly initiated immediately. Despite the disruption, the airline emphasised its commitment to safety and adherence to regulatory standards, underscoring the importance of resolving technical issues before take-off.

Technical Checks and Safety Protocols

While last-minute flight delays can be frustrating for passengers, aviation experts highlight that such measures are crucial for ensuring air travel safety. Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, like the one operated on the Pune-Bengaluru route, undergo rigorous pre-flight inspections, which include checks on engines, avionics systems, hydraulic controls, and other critical components. Any deviation or potential malfunction detected during these checks can lead to the flight being held back until the aircraft is deemed airworthy.

“Technical glitches are an expected part of airline operations, especially in modern jetliners with advanced systems,” said an aviation analyst. “While they cause inconvenience, addressing them proactively prevents in-flight emergencies. Offloading passengers and performing necessary inspections, though disruptive, is far preferable to attempting a take-off with unresolved issues.”

Akasa Air’s response to provide alternative flight options and refunds reflects standard industry practices. Airlines are required by civil aviation regulations to prioritise passenger safety while also ensuring compensation mechanisms are in place when delays occur due to operational or technical factors.

Recent Challenges for Akasa Air

The incident follows a series of operational challenges for Akasa Air over the past few months. In late November 2025, the airline had suspended its international services to and from Jeddah, Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi, citing safety concerns related to a large volcanic ash cloud originating from recent eruptions in Ethiopia. The ash cloud had drifted across major air routes between India and the Gulf region, posing a hazard to aircraft engines and requiring temporary suspension of services.

While the suspension of international flights was beyond the airline’s direct control, it highlighted the broader challenges that carriers face in balancing operational continuity with safety considerations. Tuesday’s technical glitch on the Pune-Bengaluru flight, although a domestic incident, underscores the ongoing need for vigilance in aircraft maintenance and readiness.

Passenger Experience and Reactions

Passengers on flight QP1312 reported mixed experiences. Some expressed frustration over the long wait and lack of immediate clarity regarding the nature of the technical issue, while others acknowledged the airline’s focus on safety. Social media posts from passengers described the delay as inconvenient but largely accepted the airline’s decision as necessary to prevent potential hazards.

One traveller noted, “We were seated for over an hour, but the crew kept us updated. It was frustrating, but I understand that safety comes first. I’d rather wait than face a risk mid-air.” Another passenger, however, expressed dissatisfaction, saying, “We were offloaded after boarding. There should have been a clearer explanation of what went wrong and how long it would take.”

Airline staff were reportedly active in managing the situation, assisting passengers with rebooking, arranging refreshments during the delay, and providing information about evening flights or refunds. The operational disruption also affected airport scheduling, as ground staff had to coordinate gate availability, luggage handling, and passenger flow amid the unexpected offloading.

Broader Implications for Domestic Travel

The incident draws attention to the importance of robust maintenance procedures and pre-flight inspections in domestic aviation. While airlines often strive for punctuality to maintain operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, adherence to safety protocols cannot be compromised. Delays resulting from technical issues, though inconvenient, are part of the broader system designed to prevent accidents and ensure passenger well-being.

Domestic air travel in India has grown rapidly in recent years, with airlines like Akasa Air expanding their fleet and routes to meet increasing demand. Such expansion necessitates heightened vigilance in aircraft maintenance and technical readiness, as even minor faults can have serious repercussions. Aviation regulators and airline operators consistently emphasise that no flight should depart without all systems functioning properly and inspections completed.

Looking Ahead

Once the technical checks on flight QP1312 were completed, Akasa Air anticipated the aircraft would depart Pune at 1:15 pm, nearly five hours later than the originally scheduled time. The airline’s focus on passenger safety, coupled with proactive communication and compensation options, reflects its approach to handling disruptions while maintaining regulatory compliance.

This incident also serves as a reminder for passengers to remain aware of potential delays in air travel and to stay informed through official airline communications. Travellers are encouraged to plan their schedules with flexibility, particularly for early-morning flights where last-minute checks may reveal operational or technical issues.

In conclusion, while the last-minute technical glitch on the Pune-Bengaluru Akasa Air flight caused inconvenience and frustration for passengers, the airline’s response highlights the critical importance of safety over schedule. Offloading the aircraft, conducting thorough inspections, and offering alternative arrangements and refunds underscore the priority placed on ensuring a safe and secure journey for all passengers.