A group of five women from Prostějov, Czech Republic, are stranded in Bangkok, Thailand, after their travel plans with Air India were disrupted. The women, who traveled from Vienna to Asia via Delhi without a travel agency, are now seeking assistance to return home.
One of the travelers, Petra Hrazdilová, stated that the group has registered with the “Drozd” system – the Czech Republic’s voluntary travel registration program – and is seeking help through that channel. However, she said they were informed that repatriation flights are not currently an option and they will need to find their own way back to the Czech Republic.
The women had anticipated being back at work and with their families after the weekend, but now face an indefinite delay. “We didn’t expect such a delay at all. And we don’t grasp how long it will last,” Hrazdilová said. Although they still have some funds available, one member of the group is particularly anxious as she is scheduled to continue her journey from the Czech Republic to another country.
Hrazdilová reported that many people are currently unsure how to leave Thailand. She said they received no new information, only that they should wait for air corridors to reopen. Airline staff at Air India were also unable to provide helpful assistance, and she noted that many other Czech citizens are facing similar difficulties, with more expected to arrive as their departure dates approach.
Tripled Flight Costs
Petra Drlíková, from Prague, was scheduled to fly from Bangkok with a group of nine travelers on Sunday evening with Etihad Airways, connecting through Abu Dhabi. She explained that they were able to check in on Saturday evening, but the system was already heavily congested. On Sunday morning, they were informed that their flight had been canceled and they had to check out of their hotel by noon.
Photo: Illustrative photo, Novinky
Waiting for a Return
Fortunately, a Thai friend who accompanied the group on their two-week trip was able to secure alternative lodging near their hotel at a reasonable price. “So we are on our own here,” Drlíková added.
The group began searching for alternative flights on Sunday morning. Etihad offered to change their reservation or provide a refund. They ultimately decided to search for flights with other Asian airlines, finding options with Korean Air through Seoul, but the departure is not until Thursday.
“One ticket cost 21,000 Czech koruna (approximately $915 USD), which was the cheapest available at the time. For comparison, Turkish Airlines was offering tickets at three times that price,” Drlíková said. The situation highlights the challenges travelers are facing amid widespread flight disruptions.
