Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: An Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operating flight AI133 from Bengaluru to London Heathrow was forced to make a precautionary diversion to Jeddah on March 23 after a suspected technical issue arose mid-flight, the airline confirmed.
The aircraft, registered VT-ANI, had been airborne for over six hours when the flight crew identified a potential technical concern and opted to divert in line with standard safety procedures.
According to airline and flight tracking data, the long-haul flight departed from Bengaluru and was well into its cruise phase before the issue was detected. The crew initiated a precautionary en-route diversion to King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
The aircraft landed safely at approximately 19:58 IST, with no injuries reported among passengers or crew.
While the exact nature of the technical fault has not been disclosed, sources indicated that the decision to divert was taken as a preventive safety measure rather than an emergency response.
In an official statement, Air India said, “Flight AI133,made a precautionary en route diversion to Jeddah following a suspected technical issue. The aircraft landed safely and all passengers and crew are confirmed safe.”
The airline emphasized that the diversion was carried out “out of an abundance of caution” and in strict adherence to safety protocols.
It further added, “The aircraft is currently undergoing comprehensive technical inspections in accordance with established safety protocols.” Passengers were provided assistance, including onward travel support and necessary arrangements.
