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Air India Cancels Delhi-Washington Flight Over Technical Issue in Vienna

Air India Cancels Delhi-Washington Flight Following Technical Issue in Vienna
Air India announced the cancellation of its Delhi-Washington, D.C. flight (AI 103) after the aircraft encountered a technical problem during a scheduled fuel stop in Vienna. The flight, which departed Delhi at 12:45 a.m. on Wednesday and was scheduled to arrive in Washington at 8:45 p.m. on Thursday, was grounded in Vienna after routine inspections uncovered an extended maintenance task that required immediate attention.
Consequently, the return flight—AI 104 from Washington, D.C. to Delhi via Vienna—was also cancelled. The airline stated that affected passengers were either rebooked on alternative flights or offered full refunds. An Air India spokesperson explained, “During routine aircraft checks, an extended maintenance task was identified, which required rectification before the next flight and, thus, additional time for completion.”
Passengers holding valid Schengen visas or eligible for visa-free entry were provided with hotel accommodations in Vienna. For those without entry permission, the airline arranged accommodations pending immigration and security clearances from Austrian authorities. Air India expressed regret for the inconvenience caused and reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of passengers and crew.
Operational Challenges and Broader Context
This cancellation adds to a series of recent operational disruptions faced by Air India. The airline has experienced multiple technical issues, including the precautionary diversion of flight AI 357 from Tokyo to Delhi, which was redirected to Kolkata due to persistent warm cabin temperatures. Additionally, flight AI 639 from Mumbai to Chennai returned to its origin after a burning smell was detected in the cabin. Both incidents involved Boeing 787 aircraft and resulted in safe landings, with thorough inspections subsequently conducted.
These events occur amid wider challenges confronting Air India. Following a recent crash, the airline implemented a 15% reduction in its long-haul international operations, which has contributed to increased delays and cancellations. Passenger confidence has waned, prompting many to seek alternative carriers. Competitors have seized the opportunity to attract displaced travelers by offering more reliable services.
Further complicating Air India’s operations are airspace restrictions and curfews in parts of Europe and Asia, which have intensified scheduling difficulties. Regulatory authorities have responded by recommending enhanced maintenance protocols, improved internal coordination, and clearer communication with passengers during disruptions.
Operating over 1,100 flights daily and serving more than 150,000 passengers, Air India and its subsidiary, Air India Express, continue to navigate these operational and regulatory challenges while emphasizing their commitment to safety and service reliability.

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