Malaysia Airlines Apologises After Passengers On Doha-KL Flight Stranded For Over 24 Hours
According to a passenger, their passports had been collected multiple times with little information provided about the next steps, and meals and care packs were not offered to those stranded.
By Sadho Ram — 14 Aug 2024, 01:05 PM
Malaysia Airlines has apologised after passengers on a scheduled flight from Doha to Kuala Lumpur were left stranded at Hamad International Airport for over 24 hours due to engine issues
The incident, which occurred on Monday, 12 August, has sparked widespread anger on social media.
Flight MH165, which was set to depart at 8.05am local time, was grounded after the aircraft experienced engine problems, leaving scores of passengers stranded and frustrated.
In a statement last night, 14 August, Malaysia Airlines confirmed the extended delay and acknowledged that it also affected subsequent flights between Kuala Lumpur and Doha on August 13 and 14.
"Malaysia Airlines apologises to passengers for disrupting their travel plans and appreciates their patience and understanding," the airline said in a statement, as reported by the New Straits Times.
The airline assured passengers that it is working diligently to resolve the technical issues.
Passengers impacted by the delay were reallocated to alternative flights offered by Qatar Airways, with some being accommodated in nearby hotels in Doha with full-board meal arrangements.
Despite these measures, many passengers reported a lack of clear communication and support from the airline, claiming that they faced a chaotic ordeal.
Among those affected was local photojournalist Annice Lyn, who was returning from covering the 2024 Olympics in Paris
Speaking to the New Straits Times, Lyn described the situation as uncertain and disorganised.
"A group of Malaysians, including myself, have been stranded at Hamad International Airport, with some of us waiting for more than 24 hours," she said, adding, "We are uncertain about what's happening."
According to Lyn, passengers' passports had been collected multiple times, with little information provided about the next steps, and meals and care packs were not provided to those stranded.
The incident has drawn significant criticism on social media
On X, formerly Twitter, user @faizalhamssin shared his experience, stating that many passengers, including children and the elderly, were left without hotel arrangements or basic amenities like water and food.
"Some passengers have been stranded here since 24 hours ago. These are codeshare passengers waiting for their onward flight to Kuala Lumpur," he posted while criticising Malaysia Airlines for its poor communication and expressed concerns about the airline's management and maintenance of its A350-900 aircraft.
Another passenger, Dr Helena Wright, revealed that a similar issue had occurred on a Malaysia Airlines flight the previous week, leaving her stranded in Doha for 60 hours without access to her luggage.
She claimed that priority was given only to business class passengers.
