Air India Flight AI191 Returns to Mumbai Mid-Air After Technical Issue; Return Flights Also Canceled
Date: October 22, 2025
Precautionary Air Return to Mumbai
An Air India flight (AI191) operating from Mumbai to Newark made a precautionary air return shortly after takeoff on October 22 due to a suspected technical issue, the airline confirmed. The aircraft, which had departed from Mumbai International Airport, landed safely back after the pilots detected an anomaly during flight.
All passengers and crew on board are safe. The aircraft has since been moved to a secluded maintenance bay at Mumbai Airport, where technical experts and flight engineers are conducting a detailed inspection.
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Crew Detected Snag Mid-Flight
According to reports, the flight crew detected the issue shortly after takeoff and promptly informed the Mumbai Air Traffic Control (ATC). Given that the aircraft had not traveled far from its departure point, the pilots requested permission to return.
ATC cleared the flight for an immediate priority landing, ensuring other air traffic was diverted to make way for AI191’s safe return.
Sources at the airport confirmed that the aircraft landed safely, and passengers were disembarked smoothly without any injuries or panic onboard.
Aircraft Undergoing Technical Inspection
Following the safe landing, the aircraft was towed to a secure bay for a comprehensive technical evaluation.
An Air India spokesperson stated:
“Flight AI191 operating from Mumbai to Newark on October 22 made a precautionary air return to Mumbai due to a suspected technical issue. The flight landed safely and is currently undergoing necessary inspections.”
The spokesperson did not disclose the exact nature of the technical snag, but internal sources indicate that flight systems or mechanical components may have triggered warning signals during the climb phase.
Passenger Assistance and Alternative Flights
Air India confirmed that all affected passengers were provided with hotel accommodation and rebooked on alternative flights to their destinations.
The airline expressed regret for the inconvenience caused and emphasized that passenger safety remains its top priority.
However, the disruption also led to cancellation of two return flights from Newark to Mumbai (AI144) scheduled for the same day. Passengers booked on these flights were also informed and offered rebooking options.
Air India’s Recent Technical Incidents
This incident adds to a growing list of technical snags reported in the aviation industry, highlighting the importance of routine maintenance checks for long-haul aircraft.
While Air India has faced occasional mechanical or system alerts on international routes, the airline maintains that all such precautionary returns are conducted as part of its strict safety protocols to ensure passenger well-being.
The AI191 Mumbai–Newark flight’s precautionary return underscores Air India’s safety-first approach. The airline’s timely decision to return mid-air and the smooth handling of passengers on the ground demonstrate its commitment to operational safety and passenger comfort.
As inspections continue, the aircraft will remain grounded until technical teams certify it fit for service.
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