Jeddah-bound Air India Express flight returns to Kerala after mid-air tech snag

An Air India Express flight from Kannur to Jeddah returned to Kannur after pilots detected a technical issue around two hours into the journey. The aircraft landed safely with over 180 passengers on board as the exact problem remained unclear.

In Short

• The aircraft departed Kannur airport at 7.40 am for Jeddah
• Pilots detected the problem around two hours after take-off, sources said
• More than 180 passengers were on board the Air India Express service

An Air India Express flight bound for Jeddah in UAE returned to Kannur International Airport, Kerala on Tuesday morning after pilots received an engine warning indication shortly after take-off, airport sources said.

The flight, carrying more than 180 passengers, departed from Kannur at around 7.40 am. However, about two hours into the journey, the crew noticed an engine warning light and decided to turn the aircraft back as a precaution, sources said.

Before landing, the aircraft remained airborne for some time to burn excess fuel and reduce landing weight, according to airport officials. The flight landed safely in Kannur, and no passengers were injured.

Subsequent inspections reportedly identified an issue with the aircraft's fuel filter, sources said.

Further checks of the aircraft were being carried out, while arrangements were being made for the affected passengers.

- Ends