MONTGOMERY, AL – A routine flight quickly turned into an ordeal for nearly 300 Delta passengers, as two international flights were unexpectedly grounded at Montgomery’s small regional airport due to severe thunderstorms. The passengers, on flights from Mexico City and Cabo San Lucas bound for Atlanta, found themselves stuck aboard the planes for over six hours, unable to disembark.
Lorraine Fauci, one of the passengers, described the experience as “the longest day ever.” With only pretzels to snack on, the conditions onboard were far from comfortable. “After a while, I did take a nap,” she said, highlighting the frustration shared by many.
The severe weather forced the flights to divert to Montgomery, a location ill-equipped for international arrivals due to the lack of customs staff. This unexpected stop meant passengers had to remain on the aircraft while the airline coordinated with federal officials to devise a plan.
Adding to the discomfort, passengers were informed that the international status of their flights prevented the opening of carts for additional snacks or beverages. “It was so frustrating, so uncomfortable,” one passenger lamented about the limited amenities.
By early morning, arrangements were made to allow passengers to deplane under law enforcement supervision. However, the ordeal was not yet over. Due to the airport’s inability to accommodate large jetliners, passengers had to walk from the aircraft to the terminal.
Once inside, they were confined to a small area within the terminal, with access to only monitored restrooms. Lauren Forbes, another passenger, noted the cramped conditions, adding to the already taxing experience.
Delta Airlines has since issued an apology, acknowledging that they fell short and promising to reach out to each customer with a full refund. The Montgomery Regional Airport did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
As passengers finally made their way to their destinations, many expressed a need for rest after the exhausting experience. “I’m feeling like I’m ready to maybe sleep for 12 hours straight,” one weary traveler shared.