An Air India flight bound for Delhi was forced to return to Chicago after several of its lavatories became blocked on 5 March.
Air India flight AI126, a Boeing 777-300ER, was operating from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL).
The extensive lavatory system malfunction caused the aircraft to return to the departure airport. The incident occurred over the Atlantic Ocean, approximately one hour and 45 minutes into the flight.
Air India AI126 Chicago-Delhi
The flight, carrying a full complement of passengers, experienced a series of lavatory blockages, rendering eight of the aircraft’s twelve toilets unusable. This prompted the decision to divert, prioritizing passenger hygiene and sanitation.
The return journey to Chicago added several hours to the scheduled flight time, impacting onward travel plans for numerous individuals.
Improper Disposal of Items
Air India’s subsequent investigation revealed that improper disposal of non-biodegradable items caused the blockages. This included polythene bags, rags, and clothing, into the aircraft’s waste system. This finding underscores the critical importance of passenger adherence to lavatory usage guidelines.
The incident highlights the operational challenges faced by airlines in maintaining proper sanitation during long-haul flights. Manufacturers equip modern aircraft with sophisticated waste management systems. However, improper disposal of materials blocks these systems.
Air India confirmed the inflight incident in a subsequent statement, and explained the decision to return to Chicago.
“By this time, the aircraft was overflying the Atlantic, leaving points in Europe as potential cities to divert to. However, due to restrictions on night operations at most of the European airports, it was decided to divert back to Chicago.”
The airline provided affected passengers with accommodation, alternative flight arrangements, and options for full refunds or complimentary rescheduling.
Air India issued a public statement, stressing the need for responsible lavatory use. The airline reiterated that only toilet paper and human waste should be flushed.
The aircraft conducting the AI126 service to Delhi was a Boeing 777-300ER, registered VT-ALQ. This is a 15.6 year old widebody aircraft belonging to the carrier Air India.
It has been in operational service with the airline since its original delivery from the factory in August 2009.
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