Two Delta Air Lines flights originating from Mexico and destined for Boston were diverted to Montgomery, Alabama, due to severe weather conditions. Upon landing at approximately 10:30 p.m., passengers remained on the tarmac for seven hours because the airport lacked Customs and Border Protection personnel. Passengers were eventually allowed to disembark in small groups around 5 a.m., provided with only cookies and water during their wait.
Passenger Lauren Forbes recounted the experience to Boston 25, noting the restricted area where both flights were held and the limited access to restrooms monitored by police officers. After an additional eight-hour delay, passengers finally departed for Atlanta, where Forbes and her boyfriend had to independently rebook their connecting flight to Boston.
Upon arrival at Logan Airport after a 25-hour ordeal, Forbes expressed her exhaustion and highlighted the need for improved protocols. Delta Airlines has since contacted Forbes regarding reimbursement. The airline acknowledged the shortcomings in a statement, attributing the extended hold to lightning in the area and flight crew working hour limitations. They offered a full refund to affected customers.
Alabama’s Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, which could have accommodated the flights with proper staffing, was unsuitable due to ongoing thunderstorms.
— new from The Independent