Overbooking Scam? Passengers Expose Air India

Several passengers have raised concerns about Air India overbooking its direct Delhi to Newark (EWR) flights and shifting them to connecting routes without clear justification.

In one recent case, a traveller received an email just hours before departure, claiming the direct flight was cancelled. A revised itinerary offered a longer, connecting journey instead.

The Flight Was Still Operating

Worried about the sudden change, the passenger contacted Air India’s customer service. To their surprise, they were told the original direct flight was still operating as planned.

This revealed that the cancellation notice was misleading and possibly sent to accommodate overbooking.

Not an Isolated Incident

Another passenger shared a similar experience. His wife had been booked on a direct Delhi-EWR flight just a week earlier but was rerouted to a longer alternative.

Despite the change, her original direct flight took off on schedule. Like the first case, there was no genuine cancellation.

Illusion of Cancellations?

These incidents suggest that Air India may be using false cancellations to move passengers off fully booked direct flights.

By shifting them to cheaper connecting routes, the airline appears to be managing overbooked flights without disclosing the real reason.

Impact on Passenger Trust

Such practices reduce trust in the airline. Passengers who book and pay for a direct service expect it to be honoured not replaced by a longer, less comfortable journey.

Transparency is crucial. If the direct flight is still running, travellers should have the right to remain on their original itinerary.

Call for Regulatory Oversight

These reports highlight a need for tighter regulation. Airlines should not be allowed to manipulate bookings in this manner.

Proper oversight and accountability are essential to ensure fair treatment for all passengers.