Air India Delhi-Bengaluru flight suffers tail-strike during landing, return flight cancelled

PTC Web Desk:  An Air India flight travelling from Delhi to Bengaluru was involved in a tail-strike incident while landing at Bengaluru airport on Wednesday, prompting the airline to ground the aircraft for detailed checks.

The incident occurred on flight AI2651, operated by an Airbus A321 narrow-body aircraft. According to the airline, the plane landed safely and all passengers and crew members disembarked without any injuries or disruption.

Sources familiar with the development said the aircraft encountered wake turbulence while approaching the runway shortly after a wide-body aircraft had taken off from the airport. Due to the disturbance caused by the larger aircraft, the pilots initiated a precautionary go-around maneuver.

During the go-around procedure, the aircraft’s tail reportedly struck the runway surface, leading to the tail-strike incident.

In a statement, Air India confirmed that the aircraft has been withdrawn from service and sent for a comprehensive technical inspection.

“The incident will be investigated in accordance with established procedures in coordination with the relevant regulatory authorities,” an airline spokesperson said.

Following the incident, the airline also cancelled return flight AI2652 from Bengaluru to Delhi. Air India said alternate travel arrangements are being made for affected passengers, while assistance is being provided by ground staff at the airport.

Aviation experts note that wake turbulence, especially near large aircraft, can create sudden changes in airflow and pose operational challenges during take-off and landing phases. Authorities are expected to examine flight data and cockpit procedures as part of the investigation.