Air India Vancouver Flight Returns to Delhi After 7 Hours Mid-Air

An Air India flight heading from Delhi to Vancouver had to return to the national capital after flying for more than seven hours in the air. The incident happened on March 19, when flight AI 185 took off from Indira Gandhi International Airport but later made a U-turn while passing through Chinese airspace.

The airline confirmed that the decision was taken due to an “operational issue,” though it did not share exact details. The aircraft landed safely back in Delhi, and all passengers and crew members got off without any problem. Safety procedures were followed throughout the situation.

The Air India flight was operated using a Boeing 777-200LR, which is not the usual aircraft used on this route. Normally, the airline uses a Boeing 777-300ER for Delhi to Vancouver flights. Sources suggest there may have been an administrative or technical concern related to the aircraft, but no official confirmation has been given.

After landing, the airline arranged hotel stays and support for passengers in Delhi. Air India also made sure that all travellers were sent to their destination as soon as possible. The same passengers later boarded another flight to Vancouver the next morning.

In its official statement, Air India said it regrets the inconvenience caused to passengers. The airline also stressed that passenger safety remains its top priority.