Air India Flight From San Francisco to Mumbai Diverted to Kolkata After Engine Malfunction

ncident Overview

On June 17, 2025, Air India flight AI180—a Boeing 777‑200LR originating from San Francisco bound for Mumbai—made a scheduled stop in Kolkata at 12:45 a.m. local time. During the layover, a technical inspection revealed a snag in the left engine, causing a delay and resulting in passengers being asked to deplane around 5:20 a.m.

Engine Snag & Safety Response

The left engine fault prompted the captain to order safe deboarding, citing “flight safety” as the top priority Video from the tarmac shows ground personnel inspecting the idle aircraft, while passengers waited in the terminal. No injuries were reported

Passenger Impact & Assistance

Passengers were promptly rebooked on alternate flights to Mumbai. Air India arranged accommodations and on-ground support during the delay, ensuring minimal disruption. Affected travelers remained safe and informed about next steps

Context of Recent Air India Issues

This incident adds to a string of recent technical problems at the carrier:

• An Air India Dreamliner from Hong Kong to Delhi returned mid-air due to technical issues
• A tragic Dreamliner crash in Ahmedabad resulted in over 270 fatalities, prompting urgent fleetwide scrutiny

Regulatory Follow-up

Following these events, the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) has directed Air India to conduct comprehensive checks of its Boeing aircraft, focusing on engine systems, cabin performance, and safety protocols

What’s Next for Flight AI180

• Engine maintenance: AI180 is undergoing detailed inspections and repairs in Kolkata before resuming its journey.
• Passenger re-accommodation: Travelers are either boarding next available AI flights or placed on partner airlines.
• Follow-up monitoring: The flight crew and technical teams will assess readiness before departure to Mumbai.