Air India A350 Grounded After Engine Damage from Cargo Container

A ground incident at Delhi Airport earlier this month resulted in significant damage to an Air India Airbus A350’s engine. The aircraft’s number two engine was compromised when it ingested a stray cargo container while taxiing in low visibility conditions. Fortunately, no passengers or crew members were injured during the incident.

This event, which occurred in January 2024, has led to the grounding of the aircraft, requiring extensive repairs. The incident highlights potential safety concerns regarding airport operations, especially during adverse weather conditions.

Details of the Incident

According to reports from Air India, the aircraft was taxiing on the runway when the low visibility made it difficult for ground staff to monitor the area effectively. The cargo container, which was reportedly misplaced, struck the aircraft as it moved, causing substantial damage to its right-side engine.

The A350 model is known for its advanced technology and fuel efficiency, but incidents like this raise questions about ground safety protocols. In light of this occurrence, Air India has stated that it will review its procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Impact on Operations

The grounding of the Airbus A350 is expected to affect Air India’s flight schedules, particularly for international routes, where this model is prominently used. The airline has not disclosed the estimated cost of repairs or the duration of the grounding, but the incident may result in financial implications due to flight cancellations and delays.

Passengers who were booked on affected flights have been notified and rerouted to ensure minimal disruption. Air India aims to maintain its service commitments while addressing the necessary repairs to the damaged aircraft.

As the investigation continues, the airline is collaborating with aviation authorities to understand the full scope of the incident. Ensuring safety and reliability remains a top priority for Air India, as it seeks to regain passenger trust and uphold its reputation in the competitive aviation market.

This incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in airport operations and the need for rigorous safety measures to protect both aircraft and personnel.