Air India’s newly inducted Airbus A350 (VT-JRB), operating as AI 101 from Delhi to New York, faced a double operational disruption on Thursday morning while carrying over 250 passengers. The aircraft was first forced to return to Delhi due to airspace restrictions and later encountered a ground incident at IGI Airport.
✈ Flight Details
The Airbus A350 was on a scheduled long-haul service from Delhi to New York, marking one of Air India’s flagship international routes operated by the newly inducted aircraft.
🌍 Iranian Airspace Closure
Shortly after departure, the flight was compelled to turn back to Delhi following the sudden closure of Iranian airspace, which disrupted the planned flight path.
🛠 Ground Incident at IGI Airport
After landing and while taxiing towards the parking bay at Indira Gandhi International Airport, an unsecured container was ingested into one of the aircraft’s engines, according to officials.
👥 Passenger Safety
All 250+ passengers onboard remained safe, and no injuries were reported. The aircraft was grounded for inspection following the incident.