Two Air India flights headed for the United Kingdom faced significant disruptions this week after being forced to alter their landing plans due to severe weather conditions at their destinations. The airline confirmed the incidents on Thursday, attributing the changes solely to the unfavourable weather.
Mumbai-London Flight Diverted to Gatwick
The first incident involved Flight AI131, which was operating its scheduled route from Mumbai to London Heathrow on January 9. As the aircraft approached its destination, deteriorating weather made it unsafe to attempt a landing at Heathrow. Consequently, the pilots were instructed to divert to the alternative airport, London Gatwick.
An Air India spokesperson confirmed that the aircraft touched down safely at Gatwick. Following the unscheduled landing, the airline's ground staff provided all necessary assistance to the passengers affected by the sudden change in plans.
Amritsar-Birmingham Flight Forced to Hold
In a separate but related event, Flight AI117 from Amritsar to Birmingham encountered similar challenges. As the plane reached the Birmingham airspace, the weather conditions at the destination airport were deemed unsuitable for landing. This required the aircraft to enter a holding pattern, circling in the air while awaiting clearance or an improvement in the weather.
The airline reiterated that this disruption was also entirely caused by adverse weather at the Birmingham airport, with safety being the paramount concern for the flight crew and operations team.
Air India's Response and Passenger Support
In an official statement, Air India clarified that the disruptions were beyond its control and stemmed purely from the volatile weather at the UK airports. The airline emphasized its commitment to passenger safety and well-being during such unforeseen events.
"Flight AI131... was diverted to London Gatwick on 9 January due to adverse weather conditions at the destination airport. The aircraft landed safely... and all passengers were extended assistance. Similarly, AI117... could not land at the destination airport and had to hold due to adverse weather conditions," the Air India spokesperson said.
The airline confirmed it followed all standard procedures to support the affected travellers, ensuring they were kept informed and assisted throughout the process. Such weather-related diversions and delays, while inconvenient, are standard safety protocols in global aviation to avoid risks during extreme conditions.
