Amritsar MP Flags 'Deteriorating' Air India Flights: A Call for Urgent Upgrade

Imagine, if you will, settling in for a long-haul international flight, perhaps looking forward to catching a movie or just relaxing, only to be met with a broken seat that won't recline or an entertainment screen that remains stubbornly blank. This isn't just a hypothetical frustration; it's the all-too-common reality for many passengers flying Air India's international routes from Amritsar, according to local MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla.

Aujla, the Member of Parliament from Amritsar, recently penned a rather stark letter to Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, pulling no punches as he detailed the truly dilapidated state of affairs. He highlighted a distressing list of issues plaguing these crucial international flights, which often serve as a vital link for the vast Punjabi diaspora. From the moment passengers step aboard, it seems, they're greeted by a litany of problems.

Indeed, the MP painted a grim picture, detailing how travelers routinely encounter broken seats – some even permanently stuck in awkward positions – alongside entertainment screens that simply refuse to flicker to life. And it doesn't stop there. He cited worn-out cabin interiors, unresponsive cabin crew, washrooms that are far from clean, and food quality that leaves much to be desired. Even basic amenities like blankets and pillows are often scarce or inadequate, adding another layer of discomfort to already long journeys.

This isn't just about passenger comfort; it's about India's image on the global stage. For NRIs, students heading abroad, or even patients seeking medical care in other countries, these flights are often their first or last impression of India. When that impression is marred by such poor conditions, it naturally tarnishes the country's reputation. Aujla passionately argued that the current state of these flights, especially those connecting Amritsar to key destinations like London and Birmingham, is frankly embarrassing.

Consequently, the MP's letter wasn't merely a complaint; it was a fervent plea for immediate action. He urged the Minister to order an urgent upgrade of the aircraft deployed on these international routes. Moreover, he called for a thorough investigation into the maintenance protocols and crew training, emphasizing the need for comprehensive improvements across the board. The message is clear: the current situation is unsustainable and requires nothing less than a complete overhaul to restore passenger confidence and uphold the national carrier's dignity.