The Directorate General of Civil Aviation(DGCA) on Monday launched an investigation into an Air India incident in which a Boeing 777-300ER returned to Delhi shortly after take-off after oil pressure in its right-hand engine dropped to zero, forcing the crew to shut it down mid-climb.
The investigation follows the Ministry of Civil Aviation taking note of the Air India flight AI-887 incident, which occurred shortly after take-off. The Ministry has sought a detailed report from Air India and directed the DGCA to conduct a thorough probe.
Air India’s statement
Air India said the crew operating AI-887 decided to return to Delhi due to a technical issue, in accordance with standard operating procedures. It added that the aircraft is undergoing necessary checks, and an alternative plane was arranged for a replacement flight, which has since departed with all passengers on board. The aircraft, carrying 335 people, was airborne for nearly an hour before returning to Delhi.
Since the Boeing 777 experienced an unplanned engine shutdown—classified as a serious incident—the aviation watchdog has initiated a formal investigation. “DGCA will investigate the event to understand its causes and safety implications,” a senior official said.
DGCA’s possible course of action
Depending on the findings, DGCA may issue safety directives, Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), or take enforcement action if any regulatory violations are identified. The incident will also be examined by the airline’s Permanent Investigation Board under the supervision of the Director of Air Safety (Northern Region), DGCA.
The 15-year-old aircraft has previously operated flights to destinations including Vienna, Vancouver, and Chicago, according to Flightradar24.
Last week, a similar incident occurred when a Visakhapatnam-bound Air India Express flight was cancelled at Vijayawada’s Gannavaram Airport after pilots detected an engine-related technical issue while taxiing. The aircraft returned to the bay before departure, and the flight was subsequently called off.