Air India Flight Returns to Hong Kong Due to Technical Issues
Incident Overview
New Delhi, June 16: An Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, designated as flight AI315, has returned to Hong Kong shortly after its departure to Delhi due to a technical issue, as reported by the airline.
The airline confirmed that the aircraft landed safely and that all passengers are receiving necessary assistance.
An Air India representative stated that the return was a precautionary measure after the pilot identified a potential problem during the flight.
"The aircraft has landed safely in Hong Kong and is currently undergoing technical checks as a precautionary measure," the representative noted.
"We are making alternative arrangements to ensure passengers can reach Delhi at the earliest," the airline added.
Air India also assured that comprehensive on-ground support is being provided to alleviate any inconvenience caused by this unexpected situation.
This incident occurs in the wake of increased scrutiny following the tragic crash of flight AI171 last week. That flight, also a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, was headed from Ahmedabad to London when it tragically crashed shortly after takeoff.
The aircraft collided with a doctors' hostel at BJ Medical College in Ahmedabad, leading to the loss of 241 lives out of the 242 individuals on board, along with additional casualties on the ground.
The sole survivor, Vishwashkumar Ramesh, is currently receiving medical treatment.
In a statement released on Sunday, Air India expressed profound gratitude to both the Central and Gujarat governments for their support following the AI171 tragedy.
The airline also recognized the relentless efforts of medical personnel at Ahmedabad’s Civil and Rajasthan Hospitals, as well as the ongoing assistance provided by Tata Group companies to the victims' families.
Last week, Air India announced an interim compensation of Rs 25 lakh for the families of each individual who perished in the AI171 crash in Ahmedabad.
The same amount will also be awarded to the sole survivor. This compensation is in addition to the Rs 1 crore financial aid already promised by Tata Sons.