Air India plane returned from New York midway, landed in Mumbai due to bomb threat

Air India flight AI-119, which was a Boeing 350, departed at 2:00 am on the night of March 10, 2025, from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai for John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. The aircraft carried a total of 303 people and 19 crew members. The flight was to last only for 15 hours to reach New York. While in flight over Azerbaijan, the crew of the aircraft received a bomb threat. On receiving this information, the captain decided to turn the aircraft back to Mumbai immediately. The aircraft reversed its direction accordingly and landed safely in the city at 10:25 am.

After returning to Mumbai, security teams started checking the plane. Every part was searched in the process of detecting the bomb, but no suspicious object was found. According to sources, the threat was probably false. After the incident, Air India made arrangements for the convenience of all 303 passengers and crew members. The passengers were provided hotel accommodation, food, and other necessary assistance. The aircraft is set to fly again the next day, March 11, 2025, at 5:00 am.

Air India said in its official statement, “On March 10, 2025, flight AI-119 from Mumbai to New York faced a potential security threat during the flight. As per protocol, the aircraft was recalled to Mumbai and it landed safely at 10:25 am. Investigative agencies are investigating the matter. Air India is extending full cooperation. The flight will now depart on March 11, 202,5 at 5:00 am. Passengers have been provided hotel, food, and assistance.” This incident shows the adherence to security procedures.