Stranded in Turkey, Virgin Atlantic flight passengers resume journey to Mumbai

After being stranded for more than 40 hours at a Turkey airport, over 250 Virgin Atlantic passengers, including Indians, are now airborne and their flight is expected to land in Mumbai on Friday evening.

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The passengers were stuck at the Diyarbakir Airport in Turkey after their Mumbai-bound aircraft from London was diverted on Wednesday.

In a statement, a Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said the passengers were provided with overnight hotel accommodation on Thursday evening.

"With all necessary technical approvals now secured, the plane departed Diyarbakir Airport at 13:00 local time on Friday, April 4, operating as flight VS1358. Customers are now en route to Mumbai, with an expected arrival at approximately 20:49 local time," the spokesperson said.

A passenger, who was among those stranded at the airport, told PTI on Thursday that all passengers were sitting on the floor and there were no blankets available. Also, there was no vegetarian food available, the passenger said on the condition of anonymity.

Over 250 passengers were stuck at the airport. An A350-1000 aircraft was operating the flight that has over 300 seats, according to sources.

"We're sorry that Virgin Atlantic flight VS358 from London Heathrow to Mumbai on April 2 was disrupted following an urgent medical diversion to Diyarbakir Airport in Turkey. Due to the nature of the landing, the aircraft required extensive technical inspection before it was cleared to operate. The safety and security of our customers and crew remains our highest priority, and we sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused and prolonged delay," the spokesperson said.