London, UK: Traveling to India via the UK should typically be straightforward for those eligible for transit visa exemptions. However, for one Indian-American traveler, this process turned into a distressing ordeal.

Recently, a traveler was denied boarding by British Airways for a flight from Newark (EWR) to New Delhi via London, despite holding an expired Green Card and an I-797 notice extending its validity for an additional 48 months. Under UK transit rules, this combination of documents should allow for transit without a visa, but the airline refused to accept it.

The airline contacted UK authorities, but they insisted the I-797 notice was not valid for transit purposes. The traveler was subjected to unhelpful and rude treatment, was denied a refund, and was instead offered a ticket credit valid only until September—something that felt meaningless if the UK and British Airways policies do not recognize the documents.

This denial occurred during a critical time, as the traveler was trying to urgently reach India to support a mother who had undergone surgery and was critically ill. The emotional distress of being unable to travel during such a difficult family situation has been overwhelming.

The traveler is looking for advice: Is it possible to transit through the UK with an expired Green Card along with an I-797 extension? Has anyone experienced similar situations with British Airways, even when meeting the UK transit exemption requirements? What documents are necessary for re-entering the U.S. after traveling to India with this combination of documents?

This plea highlights the complexities of transit regulations and the emotional toll of denied travel during family emergencies. It serves as a reminder of the need for clearer communication and more compassionate treatment from both airlines and authorities.