New York-bound Air India flight returns to Mumbai after threat
What's the story
An Air India flight to New York returned to Mumbai four hours after takeoff due to a security threat.
The Boeing 777 was flying over Azerbaijan before changing course and returning to Mumbai.
The flight has now been rescheduled for 5:00am on March 11. The airline stated that all passengers have been offered hotel accommodations, meals, and other help until then.
Statement
Aircraft undergoing mandatory checks by security agencies
In a statement, Air India said all necessary protocols were followed before making the return.
"A potential security threat was detected mid-flight on AI119 operating Mumbai-New York (JFK) today, 10 March 2025. After following the necessary protocols, the flight air-returned to Mumbai, in the interest of the safety and security of all on board. The flight landed safely back in Mumbai at 1025 Hrs (local time). The aircraft is undergoing mandatory checks by security agencies," an Air India spokesperson said.
Another return
Flight returns over clogged toilets
The incident came days after another Air India flight was forced to return to its takeoff destination due to clogged toilets.
The Air India flight from Chicago to Delhi had to turn back after over 10 hours in the air after nine out of its 10 lavatories got clogged.
The Boeing 777-300 ER had over 340 seats in first, business, and economy class; the only one that worked was in business class.
Official response
Air India's statement on the incident
"Upon landing at Chicago, all passengers and crew disembarked normally and have been provided with accommodation to minimize inconvenience. Alternative arrangements are being made to fly the passengers to their destination," an airline spokesperson said.
The Air India spokesperson added that full refunds on cancelation and complimentary rescheduling are being offered to those who opt for it.