New Delhi | August 31, 2025

An Air India flight from Delhi to Indore was forced to return to the national capital on Sunday morning after the cockpit crew received a fire warning signal from one of the engines. The incident, which involved flight AI2913, occurred shortly after takeoff, prompting an immediate emergency response from the airline and crew.

According to a statement issued by Air India, the aircraft “air-returned to Delhi shortly after takeoff, as the cockpit crew received a fire indication for the right engine.” Acting swiftly in line with safety protocols, the pilots shut down the affected engine and turned the aircraft back toward Delhi.

The aircraft landed safely, and all passengers were reported to be unharmed. “The safety of passengers and crew is our top priority,” Air India said, while apologising for the inconvenience caused.

Following the precautionary landing, passengers were accommodated on an alternative aircraft to continue their journey to Indore. The grounded aircraft is now undergoing a detailed inspection, with the airline confirming that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been duly informed.

Eyewitnesses at the airport described the situation as “handled smoothly” by both crew and ground staff, with no panic reported among passengers. “The announcement was calm and professional. We were assured everything was under control,” a passenger told reporters.

This incident comes only weeks after an Air India Express flight from Calicut to Doha had to return due to a technical fault. Industry experts note that while such precautionary returns are rare, they reflect the safety-first culture adopted by airlines.

The timing of the event also highlights broader challenges for the aviation sector. Just days ago, rating agency ICRA cut its FY26 air traffic growth forecast to 4–6%, warning of mounting airline losses amid rising operational costs.

Air India, now part of the Tata Group, has been working on modernising its fleet and strengthening safety protocols as it undergoes one of the largest transformation programs in global aviation.

For passengers aboard AI2913, the quick decision-making of the cockpit crew ensured that what could have been a major scare ended with a safe landing.