A video, likely recorded by a passenger on board, showed the plane surrounded by ground staff with the damaged engine visible. The plane's right engine was damaged, according to a Hindustan Times report.
“Air India confirms that Flight AI101, operating from Delhi to New York (JFK), was forced to return to Delhi shortly after takeoff due to the unexpected closure of Iranian airspace, which impacted its planned route. Upon landing in Delhi, the aircraft encountered a foreign object while taxiing in dense fog, resulting in damage to the right engine," the Air India spokesperson said.
A
baggage container was ingested by the engine of an Air India A350 at Delhi Airport. pic.twitter.com/AUYsUYn2fa
— BladudX (@BladudX) January 15, 2026
The airline said that the aircraft was parked for an investigation and necessary repairs. This may cause potential disruptions on select A350 routes, the spokesperson added.
"Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to our passengers and is proactively assisting them with alternative travel arrangements and refunds, as preferred. Safety remains the paramount priority for Air India, and the airline is committed to providing support during this time," the statement added.
The episode comes close on the heels of another incident where an Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) fire warning reportedly forced a Singapore-bound Air India flight to return to the national capital early Thursday.
The Singapore-bound Air India flight, carrying around 190 people, reportedly returned to Delhi after being airborne for around an hour.
