Air India Express Flight IX 573 was forced to divert to Dammam Airport due to adverse weather conditions preventing its landing at Bahrain Airport. The flight took off from Thiruvananthapuram, India, with over 100 passengers onboard, including women and children. The turbulence faced by the flight became apparent when attempts to land at Bahrain were made twice, both of which were unsuccessful, compelling the captain to opt for Dammam as the alternative destination.
The diversion occurred on March 1, 2025, as the aircraft encountered challenging weather conditions which inhibited safe landings. Passengers have since found themselves stranded at Dammam Airport as they await their flight's next steps. Due to the fasting hours observed during Ramadan, delays were reported in meal distribution, resulting in considerable discomfort for those who had been on the plane since the afternoon.
Air India officials are actively collaborating with Saudi authorities to expedite procedures for passengers, some of whom are facing complications related to transit visas as they are unable to disembark in Bahrain on this occasion. Notably, those who were scheduled to travel from Bahrain to Thiruvananthapuram later on the same aircraft are currently lodged at hotels equipped with meal services—due to the weather issue, they could not continue their travel as planned.
Reported by local media, it was confirmed, "Today morning at 9.30 am Saudi local time, the flight will depart from Dammam to Bahrain." Dubai residents are anxiously monitoring the situation as the timeline for their re-embarkation approaches. The angular shift from the normal schedule serves as yet another reminder of how unpredictable air travel can be, especially during adverse weather conditions.
While the passengers at Dammam await updates about their moving forward, Air India Express staff is ensuring communication remains open. They manage both the logistics required for passenger care and the technicalities needed to get Flight IX 573 back on course. With the insistence on safety reigning supreme, patience has become the watchword among travelers accustomed to the sudden twists of flight schedules.
The anticipated flight from Dammam to Bahrain is expected to restore some timeline normalcy, tentatively set to depart at 10:05 am Bahrain time, allowing travelers some respite before they resume their journeys. Subsequently, it is indicated to passengers at Bahrain Airport, all those planning to continue to Thiruvananthapuram could expect their travel to be back on track by 10:55 with the same aircraft.
Overall, this incident reflects the need for heightened awareness for aviation schedules amid changing weather patterns. What has standardly resulted in smooth travel has turned complex, showcasing how important it is for airlines to prioritize safety regardless of inconvenience caused to passengers. Recognition of these challenges will also provide operational lessons for the future.