Delta Flight Bound for New York Lands on Island, Passengers Report Pleas for Food

Passengers on a Delta flight bound for New York found themselves diverted to a Portuguese island where they claimed they were stranded for up to 12 hours without proper assistance. The travelers alleged that they had to plead for food and accused airline representatives of warning them not to incite a "revolution."

The ordeal began when the flight, five hours into its journey across the Atlantic Ocean, made an unexpected right turn due to a reported mechanical issue. The pilot announced the diversion, stating that the plane needed to land urgently due to a passenger's serious illness. However, passengers reported dissatisfaction with the lack of communication and reassurance from the flight attendants.

Upon landing on Terceira Island, Portugal, passengers faced what they described as a "reckless disregard for human life and well-being." They were taken to a secluded part of the airport, unable to freely move around due to visa issues for passengers with Ghanaian passports. Delta representatives were absent, and airport officials provided limited support.

The passengers were initially told they would receive food around 11 a.m. or 12 p.m. However, they later learned that Delta had decided not to provide food as passengers had already eaten on the plane. This decision caused frustration and confusion among passengers. Eventually, a small cafe opened where passengers could purchase food using credit cards. After pleading, passengers received paper bags with ham sandwiches, juice boxes, and cookies/crackers.

Throughout the ordeal, there were no official announcements or updates from Delta. Passengers faced discomfort and overcrowding, with many sitting or lying on hard floors. Elderly passengers, pregnant women, and children grew restless and frustrated. An airport representative warned passengers not to start "a revolution" and advised them to be grateful for a "second chance at life."

It was only after over nine hours on Terceira Island that passengers learned their plane had not left Lisbon. They departed the island after more than 12 hours, informed that their luggage would not accompany them. Additionally, passengers were told that oxygen had been dangerously compromised for the entire plane, not just the cockpit.

Passengers who reached out to Delta representatives received inaccurate information and inadequate solutions. Upon arrival at JFK Airport, they encountered difficulties in securing accommodations and food vouchers. Passengers described feeling physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausted due to the ordeal.

In conclusion, passengers criticized Delta for deserting and disregarding their well-being during a challenging situation, emphasizing the airline's neglect and lack of support during the incident.

Also Read: Kim Jong Un’s Lavish and Armored Train: A Look Inside the North Korean Leader’s Russia Trip

OTT India updates you with the latest news, The Country’s no.1 digital news platform OTT India, Keeps you updated with national, and international news from all around the world. For more such updates, download the OTT India app on your Android and IOS device.