There are some angry fliers travelling through India right now. The words flight delay across airports in Delhi, and now even Bengaluru, have come to be both dreaded and expected in equal measures. Recently, passengers on an Indigo flight from Delhi to Goa, which was diverted to Mumbai for weather conditions, were seen eating their meals on the airport tarmac! Social media platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) have been buzzing with angry messages from those stranded at airports for hours with the users citing inconvenience and (mostly) boredom as their cause of ire.
While a flight delay is infuriating in any given circumstance, there are ways to make the extended wait at the airport less trying and even… fun. Here’s how.
Flight delay? 7 tips and tricks to make your extended time at the airport both productive and fun
1. Hit up the lounge
A flight delay opens up a number of hours in your day; time which can be spent relaxing away from the grind. The best spot to do this is at one of the airport lounges. Whether you’re a frequent flyer with lounge access, possess a credit or debit card that gives you free entry or simply are willing to splurge on a day pass — make a beeline for the same. Most airport lounges offer complimentary food, drinks, nap pods and in certain cases, even spas.
2. Pamper yourself
Speaking of spas, it’s a great way to beat the stress that comes with a flight delay. Most international airports, including Mumbai’s T2 and Delhi’s T3, contain spas that offer delightful treatments and therapies that will help you feel calm, relaxed, and ready for your trip.
3. Best time to shop
You can spend your time shopping while waiting for your flight. This is especially beneficial in international airports with a Duty-Free, where you can browse through the many stalls to bring back home (or carry with you) expensive booze, chocolates and other fancy items that you bought tax-free.
4. Do some site-seeing
From Singapore’s Changi Airport to the airports at Munich, Istanbul and Qatar — these airports have been recognised as some of the best in the world for their engaging artwork and architecture, along with their incredible amenities. In India too, Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport was recognised as one of the “World’s most beautiful airports” by UNESCO’s 2023 Prix Versailles in December 2023. A stroll around these airports is akin to taking a culture walk; every wall art, winding passage, and looming structure has a story.
5. Food-and-bar hopping
A flight delay can give you the chance to embark on a gastronomical adventure. Most airports today have a number of dining options — from food courts selling all sorts of grub to more fancy, in-dining restaurants. They also have multiple bars; some even located close to the gates. Take the time to hop between eateries and bars in your extended wait time, because a happy belly equals a happy mind.
