An Air India flight carrying around 230 passengers returned safely to Delhi after a technical issue forced the aircraft to turn back mid-journey.
May 27, 2026: An Air India flight bound for San Francisco returned to Delhi on Wednesday after developing a technical snag during the journey. According to the airline, Flight AI173, operated by a Boeing 777-300 ER aircraft, was carrying around 230 passengers when the issue was detected. Flight tracking data showed the aircraft remained airborne for more than eight hours before returning to the national capital.
In an official statement, Air India said the aircraft returned to Delhi in accordance with established safety procedures. The airline confirmed that the flight landed safely and would undergo a detailed technical inspection. Air India also apologised for the inconvenience caused to passengers and said alternative travel arrangements were being made, including hotel accommodation, refreshments, and rescheduling options.
The incident comes days after another Air India flight from Bengaluru to Delhi declared a full emergency at Delhi’s IGI Airport following a suspected engine fire warning during landing approach. The airline has stated that passenger safety remains its highest priority and that investigations are being conducted in coordination with aviation authorities.