Passengers traveling from Muscat to New Delhi faced a difficult situation on February 17 and 18, 2026, as their flight was delayed significantly. Air India Express flight IX 164, carrying more than 130 people, could not take off at its scheduled time due to operational issues. Travelers remained stranded at the Muscat airport for hours, leading to frustration and exhaustion before finally departing for India.
Timeline of the Delay and Confusion
The flight was originally scheduled to leave Muscat International Airport (MCT) at 11:30 PM on February 17. However, passengers reported receiving multiple messages throughout the night that kept pushing the departure time forward. The estimated takeoff shifted from 11:30 PM to 01:30 AM, then to 02:35 AM, and finally to 03:50 AM. This rolling delay caused confusion and prevented passengers from getting any rest during the night.
Many passengers were worried about their onward journeys from Delhi. The flight eventually landed at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) at approximately 09:31 AM on February 18. This arrival was roughly five hours behind the revised schedule and significantly later than the original overnight plan, causing many to miss their pre-booked domestic connections.
Airline Response and Passenger Rights
An Air India Express spokesperson stated that the disruption was caused by a technical snag and the late arrival of the incoming aircraft. The airline emphasized that the aircraft had to be changed to ensure passenger safety. Officials confirmed that refreshments were provided to passengers at the Muscat airport food court during the wait.
To assist travelers upon arrival, a dedicated travel desk was set up at Delhi airport for those who missed connecting flights. The airline also offered affected passengers the choice of a full refund or complimentary rescheduling. According to DGCA rules, passengers are entitled to meals during long delays, and if a major delay occurs without prior notice, they may be eligible for compensation up to ₹10,000 depending on the flight block time.
