An Air India flight AI 639, operating from Mumbai to Chennai, was compelled to make an emergency landing in Mumbai on Saturday, June 28, 2025, after a burning smell was detected in the cabin shortly after takeoff.

According to Air India, the flight, which had departed from Mumbai late on Friday, June 27, made a precautionary return to Mumbai. Following the detection of the burning smell, the captain decided to turn back to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members. The flight landed safely in Mumbai, and an aircraft change was initiated. However, Air India has not yet provided specific details regarding the cause of the burning smell.

Air India has stated that its ground teams in Mumbai extended all possible assistance to the passengers to minimize the inconvenience caused by the unforeseen disruption.

A passenger, Utsav Tiwari, shared his experience on social media, noting that the flight had departed at 11:50 pm and, approximately 45 minutes into the journey, the captain announced the decision to return due to a technical issue. The flight touched down safely at approximately 12:47 am.

Airport officials were immediately alerted, and medical and fire services were put on standby during the landing.

This incident occurred amidst concerns regarding safety and passenger behavior within India's aviation industry. The burning smell aboard AI639 has fueled scrutiny concerning aircraft maintenance and the ability of older planes to meet the demands of the expanding travel market.

Another incident involving an unruly passenger on an Air India flight from Amritsar to Delhi also occurred. Upon landing in Delhi, the passenger was handed over to authorities for investigation.