An Air India flight from Delhi to Bengaluru suffered a tail-strike incident during landing after encountering wake turbulence
May 21, 2026: An Air India flight travelling from Delhi to Bengaluru experienced a tail-strike incident while landing at Kempegowda International Airport. The aircraft, operating as flight AI2651, reportedly encountered wake turbulence during its descent, causing instability moments before touchdown. Despite the scare, the aircraft landed safely and all passengers and crew members were reported unharmed.
According to aviation experts, wake turbulence refers to disturbed air currents created by another aircraft, which can affect planes flying behind during take-off or landing. The turbulence allegedly caused the aircraft’s tail section to scrape the runway, an incident known as a tail strike. Such events are considered serious in aviation as they may damage the aircraft’s rear fuselage and require mandatory technical inspection.
Following the incident, Air India immediately grounded the aircraft for detailed engineering checks and cancelled the return Bengaluru-Delhi flight AI2652. The airline said passengers affected by the cancellation were being provided alternative travel arrangements and assistance at the airport. Officials confirmed that the landing remained controlled throughout the incident and normal passenger disembarkation took place after arrival.