Air India Mumbai-Bound Flight Returns to Delhi After Engine Issue

New Delhi: An Air India flight bound for Mumbai had to return to Delhi on Monday morning due to a technical problem with one of its engines, authorities confirmed. Flight AI887, operated on a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, was carrying approximately 335 passengers and crew when the incident occurred.

The aircraft took off from Delhi around 6:30 am and was airborne for nearly an hour before the pilots decided to return. According to sources, the decision was taken after the flight crew noticed a drop in oil pressure in the right-hand engine during flap retraction shortly after take-off. The engine oil pressure reportedly dropped to zero, prompting the crew to follow standard operating procedures and make an air turn back.

“The crew operating flight AI887 from Delhi to Mumbai on 22 December decided to return to Delhi shortly after take-off due to a technical issue as per standard operating procedure,” Air India stated. The aircraft landed safely, and all passengers and crew disembarked without any injuries. The airline expressed regret for the inconvenience caused and assured that alternative arrangements were being made to transport passengers to Mumbai.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) noted that preliminary inspections are underway to determine the exact cause of the engine issue. Officials emphasized that previous maintenance records for the aircraft showed no abnormality in oil consumption, indicating this was an isolated event.

Flight tracking data from Flightradar24 shows that the aircraft remained in the air for around one hour before returning to the Indira Gandhi International Airport. The incident highlights the stringent safety measures followed by airlines in India, including Air India, to ensure passenger safety during unforeseen technical glitches.

Passengers on board reportedly remained calm as the flight crew kept them informed throughout the situation. Air India has reassured travelers that all safety protocols were followed, and the aircraft will undergo thorough checks before being cleared for service again.

The airline has arranged alternative flights for the affected passengers to reach Mumbai, aiming to minimize disruption to their travel plans. Ground staff at Delhi airport assisted passengers with boarding, rebooking, and other necessary arrangements.

This event marks another example of the airline industry’s focus on safety, where precautionary measures are prioritized over schedules. Incidents like this underscore the importance of real-time monitoring and prompt action by pilots and technical teams to prevent potential emergencies.

While Air India investigates the root cause of the engine oil pressure drop, aviation experts note that such technical turnbacks, though rare, are not uncommon in commercial aviation. Standard operating procedures ensure that any aircraft experiencing critical issues can safely return to the departure airport without endangering passengers or crew.

In a statement, Air India reiterated its commitment to passenger safety and transparent communication during technical incidents. The airline also confirmed that the affected Boeing 777-300ER will remain grounded until all necessary maintenance and inspections are completed.

Passengers scheduled to travel on AI887 have been advised to check updated flight schedules and boarding information. The airline has also provided compensation and support where applicable, in line with its customer service policies.

This incident, while causing minor disruption, reinforces the robust safety culture within Air India and Indian civil aviation, ensuring that technical problems are managed efficiently and without compromising passenger well-being.