Air India safety scare: Newest Delhi–New York A350 flight suffers engine damage after baggage container ingestion; DGCA orders probe

Air India’s newest Airbus A350, operating a Delhi–New York flight, suffered significant engine damage after a baggage container was ingested into its right engine while the aircraft was taxiing to its parking bay at Indira Gandhi International Airport, sources told PTI.

The incident involved Flight AI101, which had returned to Delhi shortly after take-off following the unexpected closure of Iranian airspace. The aircraft was carrying over 250 passengers at the time. No injuries were reported.

What Caused the Air India A350 Engine Damage?

According to preliminary findings, the aircraft ingested an improperly secured baggage container during taxiing in dense fog conditions. Engine ingestion refers to a situation where a jet engine draws in a foreign object such as cargo containers, debris or tools instead of clean air.


Unverified videos and images circulating online showed visible damage to the aircraft’s right-side engine.

DGCA Launches Probe Into Incident

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a detailed investigation to determine how the foreign object entered the taxiway and caused damage to the engine.

A civil aviation ministry spokesperson said the aircraft landed safely on Runway 28 and, while taxiing towards the apron area at the N/N4 taxiway junction, the right engine ingested a cargo container, causing substantial damage.

The incident occurred at around 05:25 IST, when visibility was marginal due to fog.

How the Baggage Container Ended Up on the Taxiway

As per the preliminary probe, a BWFS (Bird Worldwide Flight Services) tug was transporting baggage containers to the Baggage Make-Up Area of Terminal 3. During the movement, one wheel of a container dolly reportedly came off, causing the container to topple onto the taxiway intersection.

While the ground equipment operator moved away with the remaining containers after noticing the approaching aircraft, the fallen container was left behind and was subsequently ingested by the aircraft’s No. 2 engine, a DGCA official said.

After clearing metal debris from the area, the aircraft was parked at stand 244.

Air India Confirms Aircraft Has Been Grounded

In a statement, Air India confirmed the incident, saying the aircraft encountered a foreign object while taxiing after landing in Delhi.

“The aircraft was safely positioned at the designated parking stand, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew on board,” the airline said, adding that the aircraft has been grounded for a thorough inspection and repairs.

The airline did not officially identify the foreign object, though sources said it was a baggage container.

Impact on Air India’s Fleet and Operations

The grounding of the aircraft has further added to Air India’s widebody aircraft shortage, with one of its six A350s already out of service. The airline warned of possible disruptions on select long-haul routes operated using the A350 fleet.

Air India also cancelled two other flights, Delhi–Newark and Mumbai–New York (JFK), due to the sudden Iranian airspace shutdown.

Why the Flight Returned to Delhi Mid-Air

Flight-tracking data showed that the aircraft (registration VT-JRB) departed Delhi at 2:36 am and was cruising over Ahmedabad airspace when Iranian airspace was closed, blocking its planned westbound route.

With no immediate alternative routing available, the crew took the precautionary decision to return to Delhi.

Iranian airspace is a crucial corridor for long-haul flights between South Asia, Europe and North America, offering the shortest and most fuel-efficient routes. Its temporary closure forced airlines to take longer detours, increasing fuel costs and operational strain.

Why Engine Ingestion Is a Serious Aviation Hazard

Jet engines operate with immense suction, especially during taxiing and take-off. Any foreign object entering the engine can damage fan blades, cause internal structural stress, or force an engine shutdown. Such incidents often require extensive inspections or even engine replacement.

The DGCA investigation is ongoing to identify lapses in ground handling protocols. Air India said it is assisting affected passengers with alternative travel arrangements and refunds, while expressing regret for the inconvenience caused.

The final findings of the probe will determine accountability and any corrective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.