Air India’s flight AI315 from Hong Kong to Delhi was forced to return mid-air due to a technical glitch 

On June 16, 2025, an Air India flight (AI315) operating from Hong Kong to New Delhi had to make an emergency return to its origin due to technical issues encountered mid-flight. The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, had already completed approximately 90 minutes of its journey when the pilot decided to turn the plane back, strictly adhering to standard safety protocols. The plane made a safe landing back at Hong Kong International Airport, and fortunately, all passengers on board were reported to be safe.

According to Air India’s statement, the issue was due to certain technical glitches, and necessary actions were taken immediately to avoid any potential risk. An alternative arrangement for the passengers is being made by the airline to ensure their safe travel to Delhi. The airline also confirmed that its ground staff is assisting the passengers and addressing any concerns on-site.

What makes this incident particularly significant is the type of aircraft involved. The AI315 was a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner—the same model that was involved in a tragic crash just a few days earlier, on June 12. In that earlier accident, an Air India Dreamliner crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport en route to Delhi. That crash resulted in a catastrophic loss of life. The aircraft collided with a hospital building soon after takeoff, killing 241 passengers and crew on board. Additionally, 29 people on the ground, including five MBBS students, lost their lives due to the impact, bringing the total number of casualties to 279, according to a report by India Today.

That crash drew wide attention, especially after reports emerged of a London-based radiologist who was taking his family from Rajasthan's Banswara to London for the first time. Tragically, his wife and three children were among those killed in the Ahmedabad crash.

Adding to the concern, there have been several troubling incidents involving Air India flights in recent days. On June 13, a flight from Phuket, Thailand to Delhi had to return to Phuket after a bomb threat was received mid-air. The aircraft made a precautionary emergency landing, and a complete security check was conducted. Later, the threat turned out to be a hoax, but the incident caused panic among passengers. Fortunately, all travelers were safe and the flight was eventually rescheduled to Delhi.

Following these events, Air India issued a travel advisory on June 13, warning of disruptions and the need for heightened alertness. The advisory also came amid heightened geopolitical tensions, especially due to ongoing retaliatory strikes between Israel and Iran. These developments led to temporary airspace closures, particularly by Iran, which affected flight paths across the region. During that period, at least 16 international flights were either diverted or recalled due to airspace restrictions.

The fact that the latest incident involved the same aircraft series as the deadly Ahmedabad crash has further raised eyebrows. Though the cause of the technical issue on the Hong Kong-Delhi flight is still under investigation, aviation experts suggest that a thorough probe is needed to ensure the safety and airworthiness of this aircraft type.

At present, it is reassuring that no casualties or injuries have been reported from the June 16 flight. The airline is expected to release further information after a detailed technical inspection of the aircraft. For now, Air India continues to support its passengers and is working on rescheduling their travel. As the investigation unfolds, more clarity is expected on what exactly caused the in-air technical failure.

Disclaimer:
This article is based on current reports and official statements as of June 16, 2025. Details may evolve as investigations continue. Readers are advised to follow official aviation and government sources for confirmed updates.