Malaysia Airlines flight delayed in Chennai due to oxygen shortage

A Malaysia Airlines flight from Chennai to Kuala Lumpur was delayed by over two hours after the pilot identified an insufficient oxygen supply in the aircraft's tanks during pre-departure checks.

The flight was originally scheduled to depart at 11:55 pm on Monday with 178 passengers and 12 crew members. Following consultations between the pilot, engineers, and technical experts, officials decided to limit the passenger count to 100 to ensure safety levels met requirements.

The decision resulted in 78 passengers being denied boarding, leading to protests and tension at the Chennai International Airport departure terminal. Airline and airport officials eventually reached an agreement with the affected travelers, who were accommodated in airport lounges. The flight finally departed at 2:20 am on Tuesday with 100 passengers and 12 crew members. The remaining 78 passengers were scheduled to be transported to Malaysia via alternative flights operated by Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia.