DRC flight delay frustrates passengers

A GROUP of passengers have been stranded at OR Tambo International Airport as their flight to the Democratic Republic of Congo had been delayed since Monday.

Yvonne Subrayan is one of 10 passengers who were frustrated at Korongo Airlines’ flight delays and the escalating costs they have had to incur as a result.

The group were told that the airline’s only craft was unable to take off during the scheduled time on Monday because it was damaged when a container fell on it.

They were then informed by the airline that their flight had been rescheduled for yesterday morning.

But when they arrived at the airport, they were told that their flight had been cancelled again and that they could only board tomorrow.

“The staff at the airline only told us the flight was cancelled again when we got to the airport,” Subrayan said.

“They did not give us any other information or guarantees, and now we are stranded.”

When the disgruntled passengers demanded answers from the staff, they were allegedly told that the airline’s manager was the only one who could handle their complaints, but they refused to give out his name or contact details.

“No one wants to take responsibility or give us answers for this inconvenience that the airline has caused.”

Passengers are also facing the possibility that their visas might expire before they even get to the DRC.

“My visa expires at the end of the month, which means that my trip will be cut short because I was supposed to be in Congo already,” Subrayan said.

“Some of the other passengers’ visas are going to expire this week.”

She said the airline did not make alternative arrangements for the passengers.

The airline’s reservation consultant, Michelle Anjinho, said a notice was sent to the passengers earlier in the week, informing them that the option of a reimbursement was available.

She confirmed that the plane was damaged by a container, but that it had since been repaired.