Passengers of a Smartwings charter flight from Warsaw to Zakynthos have been stuck at Chopin Airport for 14 hours due to a plane malfunction and lack of hotel accommodations.
Flight Delay and Stranding
Passengers of a Smartwings charter flight from Warsaw to the Greek island of Zakynthos have been stranded at Chopin Airport since noon, awaiting their flight. A malfunction in the plane caused a significant delay, and the passengers have been spending the night on airport benches.
Cause of Delay and Initial Response
The issues arose around 12:00 PM when a technical fault was detected in the plane operating the charter for Itaka travel agency. Initially, passengers were informed that another aircraft would be provided, but this decision was later changed, and it was announced that the flight would depart on the same plane after a technical review and repair.
Lack of Hotel Accommodations
The waiting passengers requested hotel accommodations, but it was not possible to organize lodging. As a result, most travelers are currently spending the night on seats and benches in the departure hall.
Uncertainty Over Flight Schedule
According to the latest predictions, passengers may be able to fly to Zakynthos in the morning hours. However, Smartwings has not yet provided an official statement regarding the final departure time.
Passenger Experiences
One passenger reported that people have been at the airport since 10:00 AM, including an individual on a wheelchair and small children. The passenger criticized Smartwings for not taking responsibility and providing changing and often unrealistic departure times.
