New Delhi: An Air India flight, operating as AI-887, made a precautionary return to Delhi shortly after take-off following a technical snag. The aircraft landed safely at the airport, and all passengers were reported to be safe, according to an official statement from the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
The incident has drawn immediate attention from aviation authorities. The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has taken serious note of the occurrence and has formally sought a detailed report from the airline. Furthermore, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the country’s aviation regulator, has been directed to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has taken note of the Air India flight AI-887 incident involving a technical issue shortly after take-off. The aircraft landed safely. The Ministry has sought a detailed report from Air India, and DGCA has been directed to conduct a thorough…
— MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) December 22, 2025
Focus on Passenger Safety
Emphasizing that passenger safety remains paramount, the Ministry issued strict instructions to Air India. The airline was directed to extend full assistance to the affected travellers and ensure they were accommodated on subsequent flights without delay.
Responding to the development, Air India released a statement expressing regret over the inconvenience caused. The carrier stated that it fully empathises with passengers who faced disruption due to the precautionary air-return. In its communication to the Ministry, the airline reiterated that ensuring safety and customer convenience are its top priorities.
Alternative Arrangements Made
To mitigate the impact on travel plans, Air India confirmed that an alternative aircraft was quickly arranged to operate a replacement flight. This flight subsequently departed with all passengers onboard.
The airline highlighted that its ground teams were active during the wait, assisting passengers and providing refreshments. Senior representatives from Air India also met with passengers at the airport to offer any required support.
Air India has assured full cooperation with the investigation ordered by the DGCA. While the specific details of the technical issue have not yet been disclosed by authorities, further information is expected once the regulator completes its probe and the airline submits its formal report to the Ministry.
Dear @MoCA_GoI,
We fully empathise with the passengers who were inconvenienced following the precautionary air-return of AI887 to Delhi.Ensuring the safety and customer convenience are our top priorities. An alternative aircraft was arranged to operate a replacement flight,…
— Air India (@airindia) December 22, 2025





