Cricket

Air India's decision to cancel a scheduled passenger flight from Newark to New Delhi on Tuesday to accommodate a chartered flight for the stranded Indian cricket team has sparked controversy. The airline's move has left passengers stranded and without adequate information, prompting the aviation regulator DGCA to seek a report on the matter.Sources revealed that the charter flight was arranged as an "emergency measure" to bring back the Indian cricket team from Barbados, where they had been stranded due to a COVID-19 outbreak within the squad. However, Air India has not provided any explanation regarding the accommodation of the affected passengers.The issue came to light after several passengers complained on social media platforms about the lack of information and alternative arrangements. They expressed frustration and disappointment over the sudden cancellation of their flights without prior notice.The DGCA has taken cognizance of the situation and has sought a report from Air India on the matter. The regulator will investigate the circumstances surrounding the flight cancellation and the airline's response to the affected passengers.Air India's decision has raised questions about the airline's priorities and its commitment to customer service. Passengers have criticized the airline for prioritizing the needs of the cricket team over those of regular passengers.The incident has also highlighted the challenges faced by airlines in managing unexpected situations during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Airlines are struggling to balance the need to accommodate stranded passengers with the safety and well-being of their employees and customers.

India's T20 World Cup Champions to Return Home on Air India FlightAfter their historic victory in the T20 World Cup, the Indian cricket team is set to return home on an Air India aircraft with call sign AIC24WC. The flight, which originated in New Jersey, will make a stopover in Bridgetown, Barbados, where the team will board.The aircraft is expected to touch down in Barbados at approximately 2 am local time. The team will then depart at 4:30 am, with an estimated flight duration of 16 hours. If all goes according to plan, the team is expected to arrive in Delhi on Thursday at 6 am Indian Standard Time (IST).The original departure time was scheduled for 6 pm local time on July 2, but was delayed due to Hurricane 'Beryl', which caused the cancellation of flights and the closure of the Grantley Adams International Airport.In addition to the team, the Indian media contingent that covered the tournament will also be on the same flight, as part of a special arrangement by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).The T20 World Cup final, held at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, saw India defeat South Africa by seven runs. The victory marked India's second T20 World Cup title, after their triumph in 2007.