A Vancouver-bound flight operated by Air India was forced to return to Delhi after it was discovered mid-journey that the aircraft deployed was not approved for operations into Canada, officials familiar with the matter confirmed.
The flight, AI185, had departed from Delhi on March 19 and was operated using a Boeing 777-200LR. However, after remaining airborne for several hours and entering Chinese airspace, the aircraft was instructed to turn back due to regulatory non-compliance.
Operational Lapse Behind Incident
According to officials, the flight should have been operated using a Boeing 777-300ER, which holds the necessary approvals for operations to Canada. The mix-up is believed to have been caused by a lapse in updating operational requirements, leading to the assignment of an incorrect aircraft variant.
Aviation experts highlighted that international routes require strict adherence to aircraft-specific approvals. These include compatibility with airport infrastructure, ground handling systems, and regulatory clearances set by destination countries.
Mid-Air Turnback Over Chinese Airspace
Flight tracking data from Flightradar24 showed that the aircraft turned back after approximately four hours in the air while flying over Chinese airspace. The total flight duration before returning to Delhi extended to around seven to eight hours.
An Air India spokesperson confirmed that the aircraft landed safely and all passengers and crew disembarked without incident. The airline arranged accommodation and assistance for affected passengers, ensuring alternate travel arrangements at the earliest opportunity.
Financial and Operational Impact
The incident is expected to have significant financial implications for the airline. Experts estimate that fuel consumption alone for the extended flight duration would be substantial. Additional costs include passenger accommodation, rescheduling logistics, and broader operational disruptions.
“Such errors not only affect airline finances but also highlight the importance of stringent operational checks in international aviation,” an official noted.
Flight Resumes Operations
The airline later confirmed that the Vancouver service resumed the following day with the appropriate aircraft, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.
