An Air India flight heading to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport returned to New Delhi on Tuesday, just hours after taking off, according to flight tracking platforms. The flight, AI 155, was scheduled to leave Delhi at 1:15 pm IST and arrive in Amsterdam at 6:35 pm CET (11:05 pm IST).
It reportedly took off from Indira Gandhi International Airport at 1:17 pm. However, instead of reaching its destination, the Boeing 787-8 aircraft turned back and landed in Delhi after flying for five hours and 34 minutes.
A technical issue is suspected to be the reason for the flight’s return, though an official confirmation from the airline is still awaited.
This development comes at a time when airports across the world have witnessed major delays and cancellations in recent weeks following the IndiGo crisis. Flight disruptions have also been reported due to poor air quality in the national capital.
Poor AQI, dense fog worsens travel disruptions in Delhi
On Tuesday, Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 401, which falls under the ‘severe’ category. In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) enforced all measures under GRAP Stage-IV across the Delhi-NCR region.
Delhi airport alone saw 126 flight cancellations on Tuesday due to dense fog and low visibility. This included 49 departing flights and 77 arrivals.
Air India said it had cancelled 40 flights, sharing the update through a post on X (formerly Twitter) during the morning hours.
Air India announces Fog Care for passengers
In another post, the airline announced its Fog Care initiative for passengers affected by weather-related delays and schedule changes. For further information, it’s advised to visit Air India official website. “If your flight is likely to be affected, you’ll receive proactive updates, along with the option for a complimentary reschedule or a full refund at no penalty,” the tweet said.
We’ve activated Fog Care to support travellers during weather-related delays and schedule changes. If your flight is likely to be affected, you’ll receive proactive updates, along with the option for a complimentary reschedule or a full refund at no penalty.
Click here… pic.twitter.com/j7rN8GB1uH
— Air India (@airindia) December 9, 2025
Poor visibility caused by dense fog has also led to tragic consequences. Reports said that thirteen people were charred to death after multiple vehicles collided on the Delhi-Agra Expressway, triggering a massive fire in the early hours of Monday. Police confirmed that 25 others were injured in the incident.