An Air India aircraft operating a Delhi–Bengaluru flight experienced a tail strike while landing at Bengaluru airport on Thursday, prompting an investigation by India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
The aircraft, carrying 179 passengers and crew, landed safely despite the incident, and all onboard disembarked without further complications. However, the aircraft has since been grounded for detailed technical inspection.
Air India confirmed the incident, stating: “Flight AI2651 operating from Delhi to Bengaluru on 21 May experienced a tail-strike during landing. The aircraft landed safely, and all passengers and crew disembarked normally.” The airline added that the aircraft would undergo a comprehensive inspection in coordination with regulatory authorities.
As a precautionary measure, the pilots operating the flight have been removed from roster duties pending the outcome of the investigation, according to officials familiar with the matter.
The incident also led to the cancellation of the return service, AI2652 from Bengaluru to Delhi. Air India said alternative arrangements were made to accommodate affected passengers, with ground teams assisting them at Bengaluru airport.
Preliminary inputs from officials suggest that the incident may have been linked to wake turbulence. One official noted that a freight Boeing 747 had taken off shortly before the Air India aircraft attempted to land. The resulting disturbed airflow is believed to have contributed to the aircraft performing a go-around before the eventual tail strike during landing.
Wake turbulence refers to the turbulent air patterns generated behind an aircraft, which can impact following aircraft depending on their strength and proximity.
Another official explained that the pilots had initiated a go-around maneuver at the last moment due to wing disturbances caused by the turbulent air.
The DGCA has initiated a formal investigation into the incident to determine the exact sequence of events and assess any operational or procedural lapses.
Air India stated that passenger safety remains its top priority and apologized for the inconvenience caused due to the disruption.
