Indian aircraft grounded in France lands in Mumbai with 303 passengers onboard

An Airbus A340 carrying 303 Indian passengers touched down in Mumbai, marking the end of an unexpected and prolonged layover in France. 

The aircraft, originally bound for Nicaragua from Dubai, had been detained at Vatry airport near Paris due to suspicions of human trafficking. 

French authorities had received an anonymous tip-off, prompting them to ground the plane and initiate a thorough investigation.

The flight, operated by Romanian charter company Legend Airlines, was carrying a total of 303 individuals, mostly of Indian origin. 

During the ordeal, the passengers experienced significant delays and uncertainty. They were initially confined to the aircraft but were later accommodated in the airport terminal with makeshift beds, access to toilets, showers, and provisions of meals and hot drinks. The French police and judicial authorities conducted identity checks and interrogations as part of their investigation into the alleged human trafficking operation.

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Legend Airlines, through its lawyer Liliana Bakayoko, firmly denied any involvement in illicit activities, stating the company had "done nothing wrong" and was prepared to cooperate with French authorities. The airline also indicated it would pursue legal action if charges were brought against it.

The Indian Embassy in France played a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of the passengers and facilitating their eventual departure. After the French prosecutors authorized the plane's release, the embassy expressed gratitude for the swift resolution of the incident.

This incident highlighted the growing trend of 'dunki' flights, which are used by individuals seeking to enter countries like the United States or Canada illegally. In the fiscal year 2023, a significant increase in illegal attempts to enter the U.S. by Indians was recorded, with many using countries like Nicaragua as transit points.

The grounded aircraft's return to India brings closure to a tense chapter for the passengers involved and underscores the complexities of international travel regulations and the vigilance against human trafficking.