DELHI- Air India (AI) confirmed that a Boeing 777 operating from Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) returned to its origin shortly after departure due to an engine-related alert on December 22, 2025.
The aircraft, operating as Flight AI887, made a precautionary air turn-back after the flight crew observed an abnormal indication during climb. The aircraft landed safely in Delhi, and all passengers disembarked without incident.
Air India Delhi to Mumbai Flight U-Turns
Flight AI887 departed Delhi at approximately 6:30 am with a delay of around 3 hours from the actual time of departure, with around 335 passengers on board.
During the initial climb phase, the flight crew detected a drop in oil pressure in the right engine. The indication reportedly showed oil pressure falling to zero shortly after take-off.
The alert occurred during flap retraction, a critical phase of flight that requires close monitoring of engine parameters. In line with standard operating procedures, the pilots decided to discontinue the flight and return to Delhi as a precaution.
Air India stated that the decision was taken purely on safety considerations. The aircraft remained airborne for nearly an hour before landing back at Delhi airport.
The Boeing 777 landed normally at Delhi, and there were no injuries or technical complications during the landing. All passengers and crew exited the aircraft safely.
Air India expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to passengers. The airline confirmed that alternative arrangements were initiated to transport affected passengers to Mumbai at the earliest opportunity.
According to Planespotters.net data, the flight AI887 was operated by Boeing 777-300ER, registered as VT-ALS. It is a 15.7-year-old aircraft powered by two GE90 engines. It is the same aircraft that was severely damaged at Newark over a decade ago and took 3 months to return to service.
Regulatory Oversight and Aircraft Inspection
A source from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that the engine oil pressure warning was observed shortly after departure. As per regulatory norms, the aircraft has been grounded for inspection.
Preliminary reviews of maintenance records indicate no previous abnormalities related to engine oil consumption on the aircraft.
A detailed technical inspection is currently underway to identify the root cause before the aircraft is cleared for service.
Similar Incident
Air India confirmed the cancellation of its Delhi to Tokyo Haneda (HND) service after the aircraft rejected takeoff due to a suspected technical issue, triggering standard safety procedures.
The airline arranged a replacement aircraft, but crew duty time limits prevented the flight from operating, leading to a final cancellation and passenger rebooking support.
Safety Protocols Trigger Takeoff Rejection Decision
Air India Flight AI358 was scheduled to depart Delhi for Tokyo Haneda on November 24, 2025 (almost a month ago). During the takeoff roll, the operating crew observed indications that required an immediate rejection of takeoff. The aircraft was safely brought back and taxied to the parking bay for inspection.
Initial technical checks prompted the crew to follow precautionary measures in line with aviation safety standards. The decision to discontinue the takeoff was taken to ensure passenger and aircraft safety, consistent with established operating procedures at Delhi airport.
Crew Duty Limits Lead to Flight Cancellation
Following the return to the bay, Air India arranged an alternate aircraft to operate the Delhi to Tokyo Haneda service. However, the assigned crew reached their Flight Duty Time Limitations, which are strictly regulated to prevent fatigue-related risks.
Operating the flight beyond these limits would have violated regulatory requirements. As a result, the airline cancelled the service after completing all operational assessments.
Passenger Assistance and Rebooking Measures
Air India informed passengers of the cancellation shortly after concluding technical and operational checks.
Ground teams at Indira Gandhi International Airport provided on-site assistance to affected travelers.
Passengers were offered hotel accommodation, along with the option of a full refund or complimentary rescheduling.
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