Passengers aboard a scheduled IndiGo flight operating from Vadodara to Delhi experienced significant discomfort after a technical malfunction at the airport led to a sudden loss of external power supply, leaving the aircraft without proper cabin lighting and cooling support while it was still on the ground.

According to information shared by those present, the disruption occurred due to a failure in the ground power unit (GPU), a critical system used to supply electricity to aircraft while they are parked at the airport gate. The malfunction reportedly resulted in an abrupt shutdown of cabin amenities, plunging the aircraft interior into near darkness and cutting off air circulation.

With the aircraft still stationed at the boarding gate, passengers inside were left stranded in humid conditions, as cabin temperature began to rise rapidly. Several travellers reported feeling uneasy and uncomfortable due to the lack of ventilation, particularly as the incident occurred before takeoff procedures had been completed.

Airport ground staff and airline personnel were soon alerted to the situation and made efforts to address the technical issue. However, restoring power took time, during which passengers were required to remain seated inside the aircraft. The absence of immediate cooling systems added to the discomfort, with some passengers expressing concern over prolonged exposure to rising cabin temperatures. 

Sources indicated that alternative arrangements were explored to stabilise the power supply and restore essential systems before the flight could proceed. Technicians worked on rectifying the GPU fault, which is essential for maintaining aircraft electrical systems while engines remain off during boarding and pre-departure phases.

Although no medical emergencies were reported, the incident caused visible distress among passengers, particularly elderly travellers and those travelling with children. The situation also led to a delay in the flight’s departure schedule as safety checks were prioritised following the restoration of power.

Such ground power unit failures, while not frequent, can cause significant operational disruptions at airports, as aircraft depend heavily on external power sources when engines are not running. Airlines typically rely on backup systems or auxiliary power units onboard the aircraft, but these may not always be sufficient in maintaining full cabin comfort during extended delays.

After the issue was resolved, normal power supply was restored and pre-flight procedures resumed. The aircraft was subsequently cleared for departure following necessary technical inspections and confirmation that all systems were functioning properly.

The incident highlights the importance of reliable ground support infrastructure in maintaining smooth airport operations and ensuring passenger comfort, especially during peak summer conditions when cabin temperatures can escalate quickly without air conditioning support.

Passengers eventually continued their journey to Delhi, albeit after an unexpected delay and an uncomfortable wait inside the aircraft.