An Air India flight operating between Delhi and Amritsar briefly entered Pakistani airspace during a go-around maneuver on June 24, 2026, prompting an investigation by aviation authorities. The incident occurred when the aircraft, Flight AI-441, was forced to abort its landing approach at Amritsar's Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport due to poor visibility and unfavorable weather conditions.
Details of the Incident
The Boeing 737-800 aircraft, carrying 132 passengers and 6 crew members, departed from Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi at 14:30 IST. As the flight approached Amritsar, the crew encountered low clouds and reduced visibility, leading to a missed approach. During the go-around, the aircraft deviated from its designated path and crossed into Pakistani airspace for approximately four minutes before re-entering Indian territory.
According to sources, the air traffic control in Amritsar had cleared the flight for landing but the pilot decided to abort due to safety concerns. The go-around procedure involved a climb and a turn that inadvertently took the aircraft over the border. The Pakistani air traffic control was notified and the aircraft was quickly guided back to Indian airspace without any further issues.
Investigation Launched
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a probe into the incident. An official spokesperson stated, "We are investigating the circumstances that led to the unauthorized entry into Pakistani airspace. Preliminary findings suggest a miscommunication during the go-around, but a thorough review of flight data and crew actions is underway." The airline has grounded the pilot and co-pilot pending the investigation.
Air India issued a statement confirming the event: "Flight AI-441 on the Delhi-Amritsar route executed a go-around due to weather conditions. During the procedure, the aircraft briefly entered Pakistani airspace. The safety of passengers and crew was never compromised. We are cooperating fully with the DGCA investigation."
Impact and Reactions
The incident has raised concerns about air traffic coordination and border security. Aviation expert Captain Mohan Ranganathan commented, "While go-arounds are standard procedures, the deviation into another country's airspace highlights the need for better training and communication between pilots and air traffic control, especially near sensitive borders." The flight ultimately landed safely in Amritsar after a delay of 45 minutes.
This is not the first time an Indian aircraft has strayed into Pakistani airspace. In 2019, a similar incident involving a SpiceJet flight occurred during a go-around. The DGCA has since issued guidelines for approaches near the border, but this incident suggests gaps remain. The investigation is expected to conclude within two weeks.
