Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) witnessed two separate aviation-related incidents in December 2025, involving Air India and its low-cost subsidiary, Air India Express, raising safety and operational concerns for the airline industry.
Air India Flight AI887 Executes Mid-Air Turnback
On December 22, Air India Flight AI887, a Boeing 777‑300ER bound for Mumbai, was forced to return to IGI Airport shortly after take-off due to a critical engine malfunction. Cockpit instruments indicated abnormally low oil pressure in the right-hand engine, which subsequently dropped to zero.
Following established safety protocols, the flight crew shut down the affected engine and performed a safe return to Delhi. All passengers and crew disembarked without injury. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), along with Air India’s internal safety board, has initiated a formal investigation into the incident, highlighting the importance of engine maintenance checks and mid-flight emergency procedures.
Key Facts:
- Flight: AI887 (Delhi → Mumbai)
- Aircraft: Boeing 777‑300ER
- Issue: Engine oil pressure dropped to zero mid-air
- Outcome: Safe return; no injuries
- Investigation: Ongoing by DGCA and airline safety board
Industry experts emphasized that this event underscores the critical role of aviation safety systems and engine performance monitoring in maintaining passenger confidence, particularly during high-traffic winter months.
Air India Express Pilot Involved in On-Ground Altercation
In a separate incident, a passenger at Terminal 1 of IGI Airport alleged that an off-duty Air India Express pilot physically assaulted him, resulting in a nasal fracture. The passenger, Ankit Dewan, filed a formal complaint, prompting Delhi Police to register cross-complaints from both parties.
Air India Express has reportedly suspended the pilot and announced plans to convene an external inquiry panel to investigate the altercation and assess crew conduct standards.
Key Facts:
- Involved parties: Off-duty Air India Express pilot and passenger
- Allegation: Physical assault at IGI Airport terminal
- Legal Status: FIR registered; cross-complaints filed
- Airline Response: Suspension and inquiry panel initiated
This incident has raised broader concerns about airport security, passenger safety, and the professional conduct of airline staff, even when not on duty.
Operational Context
Both incidents occurred amid winter disruptions at IGI Airport, where dense fog and poor visibility have caused multiple flight delays and cancellations in December 2025. The aviation sector is closely monitoring developments in engine maintenance standards, crew accountability frameworks, and airport safety protocols, as India’s busiest airport manages increasing operational pressures during peak travel periods.
The dual incidents serve as a reminder of the complex challenges faced by airlines in ensuring both technical safety and passenger security, highlighting the need for continuous improvements in operational and regulatory oversight.
