Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde found himself waiting hours at the Jalgaon airport on Friday evening after his pilot reportedly refused to fly after duty hours, adhering strictly to aviation regulations. The incident led to an unexpected delay in his return to Mumbai.
He was in Jalgaon to attend a series of meetings, including a review meeting with district officials and local leaders. His busy schedule led to the plan of departure from Jalgaon, but as he prepared to board his chartered flight, trouble emerged. According to reports, the pilot conveyed that he could not operate the flight as his duty hours had elapsed. This adherence to flight duty time limitations (FDTL) is a critical safety measure in aviation, ensuring pilots are adequately rested to prevent fatigue-related incidents.
This left DY CM Shinde stuck at the airport for several hours. While initial reports indicated the pilot cited duty hour limitations, some sources also hinted at potential health concerns preventing further flight. This situation necessitated rapid arrangements for an alternative mode of transport for the DY CM.
Eventually, DY CM Shinde had to alter his travel plans, opting to return to Mumbai by road. The journey by car from Jalgaon to the state capital is a considerably longer trip compared to a quick flight, but after the officials tried convincing the pilot, who stated that he had health issues travelling after hours, after 45 minutes of persuading, he finally agreed to fly the minister back.
On his way back, he, however, rescued a kidney patient along with her husband, who also had missed their flight to Mumbai, going as far as even getting her admitted to the hospital, to which he received grand gratitude from the family. Following the incident, many praised him on social media, applauding his kind spirit and patience, showing as a true leader.
