Key Points
- Air India flight AI-2017 to London aborted takeoff at Delhi’s IGI Airport on July 31 due to a suspected technical issue.
- Passengers faced delays, fear and had to disembark; safety protocols were followed by the cockpit crew.
- An alternate Boeing 787-9 aircraft was arranged to ensure onward travel for London-bound passengers.
- Recent spike in Air India’s technical incidents over 180 across Indian carriers this year has triggered regulatory scrutiny.
- Air India maintains passenger safety is the top priority amid ongoing DGCA safety audits.
New Delhi: A tense scene unfolded at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) on July 31, 2025, as Air India flight AI-2017, bound for London, had to abort its takeoff in dramatic fashion. Moments after the aircraft a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner taxied out and began its acceleration down the runway, a cockpit warning forced the pilots to slam the brakes and abandon departure as a safety precaution.
What Happened?
- The scheduled 4:45PM departure to London had already faced a delay; by 6:10PM, as the jet finally lined up for takeoff, pilots were alerted to a technical snag.
- Following strict safety procedures, the cockpit promptly notified air traffic control, engaged emergency brakes, and halted the aircraft.
- Cabin crew and passengers were visibly shaken by the sudden action, but after brief reassurances, all were safely deboarded and led back to the terminal.
Air India Responds: Safety First
- Air India confirmed that the Dreamliner was returned to the parking bay for precautionary technical checks, with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) informed immediately.
- The airline quickly arranged for an alternative Boeing 787-9 to take passengers to London, pledging “all support and care to the guests to minimize inconvenience”.
- No injuries were reported and the flight was set to resume with the replacement aircraft later that evening.
A Trend Raising Questions
This incident is the latest in a string of technical issues plaguing Air India. Official data reveals over 180 technical defects across Indian airlines this year alone, with Air India and Air India Express accounting for nearly half. Just earlier this month, another Air India flight between Delhi and Kolkata also aborted takeoff mid-run due to cockpit alerts.
The spate of incidents has caught the attention of India’s civil aviation regulator, which is currently auditing Tata-owned Air India for safety violations, maintenance lapses, and pilot training concerns.
Passengers Urged to Stay Alert
Frequent fliers are being advised to monitor updates and prepare for unexpected delays as airlines sharpen technical checks under stricter regulatory scrutiny.
While the episode at IGI ended safely and with strong professional response from Air India’s crew, continued technical snags remain a concern for both passengers and the aviation sector. Air India’s commitment to “safety first” will be under close watch as audits and improvements roll out over the coming months.
If you’re flying with Air India or any Indian carrier this monsoon, keep an eye on real-time flight updates and travel alerts for the latest on your journey.
