An Air India Dreamliner en route from Hong Kong to Delhi was forced to return shortly after takeoff due to a suspected technical issue, officials confirmed on Monday.
An Air India Dreamliner en route from Hong Kong to Delhi was forced to return shortly after takeoff due to a suspected technical issue, officials confirmed on Monday.
Flight AI315, operated by a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, departed Hong Kong at 12:16 PM local time, according to data from Flightradar24. However, just over an hour into the journey, the pilot reported a potential technical malfunction and decided to turn the aircraft back as a safety precaution.
The flight landed safely back in Hong Kong, and no injuries have been reported. The precise nature of the suspected issue remains unclear. The aircraft is currently undergoing detailed inspection and technical evaluation.
"Passenger safety is our highest priority. The flight crew followed standard operating procedures after detecting an anomaly and returned the aircraft safely," an Air India spokesperson said to the Economic Times.
Sources told Reuters that the Dreamliner is now being thoroughly checked by maintenance crews, with updates on the situation expected soon.
This marks the second such incident involving an Indian carrier in recent weeks, prompting renewed attention on aircraft safety protocols and maintenance checks.
Passengers on board were offered alternative arrangements, and the airline is coordinating with authorities to ensure minimal disruption.
Further developments are awaited as technical teams assess the situation.