Pak nationals deported from Indore after mistaken airport stop

Two Pakistani nationals, Vicky Kumar and Poonam Kumari, mistakenly landed at Devi Ahilyabai Holkar International Airport in Indore on a flight from Sharjah, intending to reach New Delhi. They had valid visas for travel from Sharjah to Delhi but deboarded in Indore due to a misunderstanding about their flight route. This incident occurred on a Tuesday night, leading to their detention at the airport for two days as they awaited the next available flight back to Sharjah. During the immigration check, officials discovered the visa discrepancy, which prevented the passengers from leaving the airport. Pakistani citizens are only permitted to land at specific airports in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai, before traveling to other destinations. The airline's failure to issue proper boarding passes in Sharjah contributed to the confusion, as the passengers believed their flight would connect through Indore. The situation highlights the importance of clear communication and proper procedures by airlines to prevent such incidents. An aviation expert noted that similar mistakes have occurred in the past, emphasizing the need for airlines to ensure that passengers are fully informed about their travel routes and visa requirements. Ultimately, the two passengers were able to depart for Sharjah on a Thursday night flight, concluding their unexpected detainment. This incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in international travel and the potential for misunderstandings that can lead to significant inconveniences for travelers.