Flight MH181 was supposed to leave at 11:55 p.m. on Oct. 11 with 178 passengers. The Times of India reported that the plane finally took off at 2:20 a.m. with only 100 passengers on board. This delay shows how safety checks can change travel plans.

During the pre‑flight checks, the pilot discovered that the onboard oxygen supply was insufficient for all passengers, FTN News reported. Because of this safety problem, the pilot refused to continue with the flight. The pilot’s decision was based on safety concerns.

After the pilot’s refusal, officials consulted aircraft engineers and technical experts. They decided to carry only 100 passengers and to send the remaining 78 on other flights. The 78 denied passengers were placed in the lounge at Chennai Airport and later traveled on AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines flights, airport officials said.

The incident shows that a safety inspection can cause a flight delay and reduce the number of passengers. Airlines will still find other flights for passengers who cannot board.