An Air India flight traveling from Mumbai to Newark was forced to return to Mumbai shortly after takeoff on October 22 due to a suspected technical issue.
The aircraft, flight AI191, was mid-way through its journey when the in-flight crew detected a technical anomaly and made the decision to turn back. The plane landed safely at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew members on board.
Following the safe landing, the aircraft was immediately grounded for detailed inspections and comprehensive regular checks by the engineering team. This necessary procedure, aimed at diagnosing and rectifying the suspected issue, led to the subsequent cancellation of two services: the outbound AI191 flight to Newark and the corresponding inbound flight, AI144, from Newark to Mumbai.
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In a statement issued by Air India, the airline confirmed that it is actively managing the situation and attending to the passengers affected by the cancellation. The airline is providing hotel accommodation for the delayed travelers and is working to arrange alternative bookings. These new arrangements are being made not only on other available Air India flights but also across other airlines, ensuring minimal disruption to the passengers’ travel plans.
The airline reaffirmed that the safety of both its passengers and crew remains the top priority, guiding all operational decisions during the disruption. This incident underscores the strict safety protocols followed by airlines to address suspected technical faults immediately and preemptively, even on long-haul international routes.
