DOHA- Qatar Airways (QR) flight from Hamad International Airport (DOH), Doha to Auckland Int’l Airport (AKL), New Zealand diverted to Velana International Airport (MLE), Male in Maldives on Friday, December 6, 2024.

The flight QR920 experienced a technical issue that prompted an unexpected landing, initiating a complex sequence of events for travelers.

Qatar Airways Flight Diverted

Passengers were stranded at the Maldives airport for over 12 hours while airline staff arranged a replacement aircraft. The prolonged delay created considerable passenger frustration, with reports indicating inconsistent communication from airline personnel about the nature of the stoppage.

Family members of passengers reported to New Zealand’s Stuff about conflicting information provided by airline staff, with some travelers initially being told the stop was a “normal stopover” and part of a “pilot flight” initiative. These mixed messages escalated passenger tensions and contributed to a challenging travel experience.

The unexpected diversion forced some passengers to sleep on the airport floor, with one family member describing the treatment as lacking “dignity”. The replacement aircraft eventually departed, approximately one hour behind the original schedule, with an estimated arrival in Auckland around 9:45 pm Saturday.

Discomfort to Passengers

Passengers confronted multiple restrictions during their unexpected layover. Airline staff informed travelers they could not leave the airport or secure alternative accommodations, forcing them to remain within the terminal for approximately 12 hours.

Passenger Glenn Hanham told Stuff that heightened tensions when informed about the extended wait and accommodation limitations.

The airline’s response exacerbated passenger frustration. According to travelers, Qatar Airways declined to provide hotel rooms, citing insufficient availability with partner hotels.

Additionally, passengers were prohibited from booking independent accommodations or accessing their checked luggage. These constraints resulted in travelers sleeping on airport floors and chairs, creating increasingly uncomfortable conditions.

Some passengers experienced differential treatment. Geraldine Granma from Wellington noted that families received access to the business class lounge. However, she emphasized the significant strain on travelers, particularly those with young children.

Families traveling with infants and preschool children faced substantial challenges, with some having traveled from the United Kingdom with 18-month-old twins.

In an official statement, a Qatar Airways spokesperson expressed regret for the delay and confirmed ongoing efforts to assist passengers. The airline is committed to supporting travelers in completing their journeys and ensuring smooth onward connections to their final destinations.

Flight Details

According to Flight Radar 24 data, Qatar Airways flight QR920 took off from Doha at 12:25 AM UTC. After being airborne for around 4 hours, the flight landed safely in Maldives at 4:47 AM UTC.

The flight was operated by Airbus A350-1000, registered as A7-ANP. Further, it is a 4.9-year-old aircraft and is powered by Rolls-Royce XWB-97 engines.

Further, the flight distance between Doha and Auckland is 9,031 miles (14,450 km). Also, it takes around 16 hours to complete this long-haul route.

All Images by Clément Alloing | Flickr

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