Air India Flight Returns to Delhi Due to Engine Malfunction

Emergency Landing of Air India Flight

On Monday morning, an Air India Boeing 777 en route to Mumbai had to return to the national capital due to an engine malfunction. The aircraft, carrying approximately 335 passengers, spent nearly an hour in the air before making its emergency landing back in Delhi.

According to a statement from Air India, the crew of flight AI887, which was scheduled to depart from Delhi to Mumbai on December 22, decided to return shortly after takeoff due to a technical issue, following standard operating procedures.

The airline confirmed that the aircraft landed safely in Delhi, and all passengers and crew members disembarked without incident. Air India expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by this unexpected situation.

A source from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) indicated that the decision to return was made after a drop in oil pressure in the right engine during the flap operation. Flaps are crucial components that enhance the wings' lift, allowing the aircraft to maintain stability and safety at lower speeds.

The source further noted that the engine oil pressure had dropped to zero, and an investigation into the matter is ongoing. A review of previous records showed no abnormalities in oil consumption.

The airline is currently conducting necessary inspections on the aircraft and has arranged alternative travel options for the affected passengers. Flight tracking website FlightRadar24 reported that flight AI887, operated by a Boeing 777-300 ER, took off around 6:30 AM and remained airborne for about an hour.