London-Bound Air India Flight Diverted to Delhi After Mid-Air Technical Glitch, Loud Noise Reported

New Delhi: An Air India flight operating from Delhi to London on March 26 diverted mid-air after a technical issue was reported. 

The aircraft, an A350 (VT-JRF), landed safely in Delhi and is currently subject to extensive technical evaluations, which will require additional time to complete.

During this period, Air India's airport team at Delhi is extending full support to passengers and crew. All immediate assistance, including refreshments, is being provided.

"We deeply regret the inconvenience caused to our guests due to this unforeseen situation," the airline said in a statement.

Air India is making every effort to ensure passengers are able to continue their journey to London at the earliest.

"At Air India, the safety and wellbeing of our passengers and crew remain our top priority," the airline added.

Loud Grinding Noise Triggers Diversion

Earlier reports had indicated that the flight was diverted after loud grinding or thumping noise was heard from the aft section of the aircraft, which typically refers to the rear portion near the cargo hold.

The noise was reportedly so intense that it affected cockpit communication, prompting the pilot to take precautionary measures.

Second Air India Diversion in Two Days

The incident comes a day after another Air India flight from Bengaluru to London (AI133) was diverted mid-air to Jeddah on March 23 following a suspected technical issue.

The airline had then stated that the aircraft landed safely and all passengers and crew were unharmed.

Air India had described the earlier diversion as a precautionary step taken out of “an abundance of caution,” with the aircraft undergoing detailed technical checks.

The airline had also said it was coordinating with airport authorities to ensure assistance for passengers, reiterating that safety remains its top priority.