All passengers and crew disembarked normally, and no injuries were reported.
Mumbai-Bound Air India Flight Makes Precautionary Return to Delhi
On Monday morning, December 22, 2025, a Mumbai-bound Air India flight had to return to Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, after a serious engine-related technical issue forced the crew to shut down one of its powerplants mid-air.
According to an Air India spokesperson, the aircraft was operating as Flight AI887 from New Delhi to Mumbai; it had taken off and was airborne for about an hour with approximately 355 passengers and crew on board when the problem was detected. The flight crew observed a drop in oil pressure in the right-hand engine (Engine No. 2) shortly after take-off during the flap retraction process, according to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
The airline spokesperson, without disclosing further technical specifics said, “The crew operating flight AI887 from Delhi to Mumbai on 22 December decided to return to Delhi shortly after take-off due to a technical issue as per standard operating procedure.”
Engine oil pressure is a critical parameter for aircraft engines as it ensures proper lubrication and cooling of internal components. On this flight, the oil pressure reportedly dropped to zero, prompting the crew to shut down the affected engine immediately in line with safety protocols.
The spokesperson confirmed that following the shutdown, the Boeing 777 made a precautionary return and safe landing at Delhi. All passengers and crew disembarked normally, and no injuries were reported.
The DGCA said that an inspection and rectification process is underway, and the Permanent Investigation Board under the Director of Air Safety (NR) will conduct a full inquiry into the incident.
Air India expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by the unforeseen situation and said its ground teams provided immediate assistance, including arranging alternative travel for affected passengers. The civil aviation ministry also stated it has taken note of the event and sought a detailed report from the airline.
Source: Hindustan Times
