An Air India flight bound for Mumbai was forced to make a swift return to the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on Monday morning following a technical malfunction. The incident involved a Boeing 777 aircraft, which safely landed back at its origin after one of its engines shut down shortly after take-off.
Timeline of the Incident and Safe Return
The aircraft, registered as VT-ALS, operated as flight AI 887. It departed from Delhi at 6:10 am on Monday, December 22. However, the flight crew encountered a technical issue with the right-side engine soon after becoming airborne. Adhering to established safety protocols, the pilots made the decision to turn back.
According to data from flight tracking websites, the twin-engine jet successfully landed back at Delhi airport at approximately 6:52 am. Modern twin-engine aircraft like the Boeing 777 are designed to operate safely on a single engine, a capability that allowed for a secure return and landing.
Air India's Official Statement and Passenger Care
Air India promptly addressed the situation. A spokesperson for the airline confirmed the sequence of events, stating the return was conducted as per standard operating procedure due to the technical snag.
The airline emphasized that the safety of passengers and crew is its top priority. The aircraft landed safely at Delhi, and all passengers and crew disembarked without injury. Air India expressed sincere regret for the inconvenience caused by this unforeseen event.
Immediate assistance was provided to the affected travelers by the ground team in Delhi. The airline has made alternative arrangements to fly the passengers to their destination in Mumbai at the earliest opportunity. Meanwhile, the affected Boeing 777 is undergoing thorough technical checks by engineers.
Analysis and Aviation Safety Protocols
This incident highlights the robustness of modern aviation safety systems. The crew's decision to return immediately, rather than continue, demonstrates a precautionary approach that prioritizes safety above all else. Engine shutdowns, while serious, are scenarios for which pilots are extensively trained.
The successful single-engine landing underscores the built-in redundancy and engineering of contemporary long-haul aircraft. Such events are managed through stringent procedures to ensure no compromise on passenger safety. Investigations will focus on the root cause of the engine issue to prevent future occurrences.
