DELHI- Tata Group-owned Air India (AI) is arranging a special flight to evacuate stranded passengers after Flight AI102 from New York (JFK) to Delhi (DEL) was diverted to Shannon (SNN). The disruption left travelers grounded for more than 34 hours.
The airline confirmed a technical issue prompted the diversion, with efforts underway to operate a relief flight and return passengers to Delhi (DEL) as soon as possible, FE reported.
Air India Passengers Stranded in Shannon
Air India Flight AI102, operating from New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), made a precautionary diversion to Shannon Airport (SNN) on March 15. The airline cited a suspected technical issue as the reason for the unscheduled landing.
The aircraft remained grounded in Shannon for over 34 hours, leading to significant inconvenience for passengers.
Reports on social media highlighted the delay, with some claims suggesting a replacement aircraft was being positioned from Zurich. However, flight tracking data did not immediately confirm these movements.
Air India stated that safety protocols required extensive technical inspections before the aircraft could be cleared for further operations. Sources indicated that unusual vibrations and noise were observed mid-flight, prompting the diversion after nearly six hours in the air.
Air India Response and Passenger Support Measures
Air India confirmed that it is planning a special flight to transport affected passengers from Shannon (SNN) to Delhi (DEL). The airline is expected to operate this relief service via Zurich, with departure planned for Wednesday.
According to airline officials, stranded passengers were provided with hotel accommodation and assistance with immigration and customs procedures. The airline maintained that all actions were taken in line with safety standards and passenger care protocols.
Passengers are expected to reach Delhi by the end of the day once the special flight is completed.
Technical Issue Behind the Diversion
The aircraft involved in the incident is an Airbus A350, which joined Air India’s fleet in April 2024. The airline emphasized that the diversion was precautionary and aligned with standard safety procedures.
Air India stated that the aircraft is undergoing detailed technical evaluations, which require additional time to ensure airworthiness. The decision to divert reflects standard aviation practice when potential mechanical anomalies are detected during flight.
Expected Resolution Timeline
The delay extended beyond 24 hours, with passengers remaining in Shannon due to the time required for inspections and operational planning.
Air India’s current plan is to complete passenger transfer via a special flight scheduled for Wednesday.
Once operational, the relief flight will bring passengers to Delhi, resolving the disruption caused by the diversion.
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