MUMBAI: A New York-bound Air India flight returned to Mumbai nearly eight hours after takeoff following a security threat received mid-flight. The Boeing 777 aircraft, carrying 303 passengers and 19 crew members, was flying over Azerbaijan when the crew was alerted about the potential risk, prompting an immediate course reversal back to Mumbai.
Upon landing, security agencies swiftly initiated bomb detection procedures, but the threat was ultimately deemed a hoax. Flight AI-119 departed from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport around 2 a.m. on its 15-hour journey to John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. However, it was forced to return and landed back in Mumbai at approximately 10:25 a.m.
In an official statement, Air India confirmed that the decision to turn back was taken as a precautionary measure in response to a potential security risk. The airline assured passengers that all necessary support, including accommodation and meals, had been arranged.
“A potential security threat was detected mid-flight on AI119 operating Mumbai-New York (JFK) today, 10 March 2025. Following the protocols, the flight air-returned to Mumbai, in the interest of the safety and security of all on board,” said the airline spokesperson. The official further said that the flight landed safely back in Mumbai at 1025 hrs. Security agencies are undergoing mandatory checks on the aircraft, and AI is extending its full cooperation.
“The flight has been rescheduled to operate at 0500 hrs of 11 March 2025, and all passengers have been offered hotel accommodation, meals, and other assistance until then. Our colleagues on the ground are making sure to minimise the inconvenience caused to our passengers by this disruption,” the spokesperson added.
303 passengers, 19 crew on board
The Boeing 777 aircraft, carrying 303 passengers and 19 crew members, was flying over Azerbaijan when the crew was alerted about the potential risk, prompting an immediate course reversal.
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