A Singapore-bound Air India flight was forced to return to Delhi due to a technical issue, causing concern and disruption for passengers. The incident occurred on January 15, 2026, prompting immediate safety protocols.

The flight, which had taken off from Indira Gandhi International Airport, was carrying a large number of passengers. Shortly after departure, pilots detected a technical snag, the specifics of which have not yet been disclosed by Air India. In accordance with safety regulations, the pilots made the decision to turn back to Delhi.

An Air India spokesperson confirmed the incident, stating that the aircraft landed safely in Delhi. Engineers are currently inspecting the aircraft to determine the exact nature of the technical problem and to carry out necessary repairs.

Passengers were deplaned and arrangements are being made to accommodate them on alternative flights to Singapore. Air India has yet to release a statement regarding the estimated time of departure for the rescheduled flights.

This incident comes amidst a period of disruption for Indian airlines. Several airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, have warned of potential flight delays and cancellations due to airspace closures in Iran. These closures are a result of heightened tensions in the region, requiring airlines to reroute flights and, in some cases, cancel them altogether.

Air India has stated that flights that would normally overfly the affected region are now using alternative routes, which is likely to cause delays. The airline has also had to cancel flights where rerouting is not a feasible option.

Such technical issues and geopolitical tensions underscore the challenges faced by airlines in ensuring smooth and timely operations. Passengers are advised to check with Air India for updates on their flight schedules and to allow for potential delays.

Air India has been working to improve its services and reliability since its acquisition by the Tata Group in 2022. The group has expressed its commitment to transforming Air India into a top-tier airline, focusing on enhancing flight and customer experience, incorporating advanced technology, and ensuring overall safety. However, incidents such as this serve as a reminder of the ongoing efforts required to meet these goals.