Air India Flight Returns to Mumbai After Burning Smell Detected in Cabin; Alternate Aircraft Deployed
Air India flight AI639 returned to Mumbai after a burning smell was detected onboard. Passengers were supported and an alternate aircraft was arranged.
image for illustrative purpose
An Air India flight from Mumbai to Chennai was forced to make a precautionary return on Friday after crew members detected a burning smell in the cabin mid-air. The flight, AI639, landed safely back at Mumbai Airport without incident.
An Air India spokesperson confirmed the development, stating, “The flight landed safely back in Mumbai, and an aircraft change was initiated. Our ground colleagues in Mumbai provided all necessary support to passengers to minimise the inconvenience caused by this unforeseen disruption.”
🔒 Separate Security Alert Reported
On the same day, a non-specific security alert was detected on a separate Air India aircraft. According to the airline, standard safety protocols were followed, and the aircraft was later cleared for departure.
In an official statement, Air India said, “A non-specific security alert was detected on one of our aircraft. Standard security procedures were duly carried out, and the aircraft has been cleared for the next flight. Air India accords top priority to the safety and security of its passengers and crew.”
🛬 Air India Express Flight Also Forced to Return
In a separate incident earlier this week, an Air India Express flight (IX2564) operating between Delhi and Jammu had to return to Delhi due to a technical issue identified mid-flight. The flight, operated by an Airbus A320, had initially taken off at 11:04 AM and was expected to arrive in Jammu at 12:05 PM.
A spokesperson for Air India Express confirmed, “An alternative aircraft was arranged to operate our Delhi–Jammu flight after the original aircraft returned to Delhi due to a technical issue. We regret the inconvenience caused.”
⚠️ Context of Heightened Safety Concerns
These incidents come in the aftermath of the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI-171 on June 12, en route from Ahmedabad to London, in which 241 of 242 passengers and crew lost their lives. The series of recent safety concerns has drawn fresh attention to Air India’s operational protocols and maintenance standards.
Air India has reiterated its commitment to passenger safety, emphasizing that safety and security remain the airline’s top priorities amid increased vigilance and oversight.
