New Delhi, India: An Air India Airbus A350-900 operating flight AI111 from Delhi to London Heathrow was forced to return to its origin after a suspected technical issue was detected mid-air, marking the second such incident within 10 days.
The aircraft, registered VT-JRF, took off from Indira Gandhi International Airport early Thursday morning and remained airborne for nearly seven hours before safely landing back in Delhi.
According to airline and regulatory sources, the flight crew reported non-specific vibrations and unusual noise, particularly from the aircraft’s belly or cargo hold area, while the aircraft was cruising over Oman/Saudi Arabian airspace.
Despite normal cockpit instrument readings, the pilots opted for a precautionary return in line with safety protocols. Air India confirmed that the decision was taken “in an abundance of caution” after a suspected technical issue was identified.
The aircraft had departed Delhi around 5:42–6:13 AM and returned at approximately 12:30–1:20 PM, after covering nearly 3,000+ km before turning back.
Air India confirmed that the aircraft landed safely, and all passengers and crew onboard were unharmed.
The airline stated that the aircraft is undergoing extensive technical inspections, and reiterated that passenger safety remains its top priority.
Passengers were provided assistance, including refreshments and arrangements for onward travel.
This is the second time in less than two weeks that aircraft VT-JRF has experienced similar issues. On March 15, the same aircraft, operating flight AI102 (New York–Delhi), was diverted to Shannon, Ireland, after passengers reported floorboard vibrations and noise from below the cabin. Around 300 passengers were onboard during that incident, and the aircraft landed safely.
India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has launched a formal investigation into the incident. Officials from the airworthiness and air safety directorates are examining the aircraft and the recurring nature of the issue.
