Air India Jet Grounded After Engine Fire Scare at Delhi Airport
New Delhi, India – An Air India passenger jet was swiftly grounded on Tuesday following a concerning incident involving a fire in its power generator shortly after landing at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi. While no injuries were reported, the event triggered immediate safety protocols and a thorough inspection of the aircraft.
According to Air India officials, the incident occurred as the flight touched down at the airport. Passengers reported hearing a loud noise and observing smoke emanating from the rear of the aircraft. The auxiliary power unit (APU), responsible for providing electrical power to the plane while on the ground and during certain phases of flight, malfunctioned, resulting in the fire. Emergency services were immediately alerted and responded promptly, ensuring the situation was swiftly contained.
“We can confirm that an Air India aircraft experienced a technical issue shortly after landing in Delhi,” stated an Air India spokesperson. “The aircraft has been taken out of service for a comprehensive assessment by our engineering team. The safety and well-being of our passengers and crew remain our top priority.”
The APU is a critical component of modern aircraft, providing power for various systems including air conditioning, lighting, and navigation equipment. While APU malfunctions are rare, they can pose significant safety risks if not addressed promptly. The fire was reportedly small and quickly extinguished by the aircraft’s onboard fire suppression system, preventing escalation. However, the incident underscores the importance of rigorous aircraft maintenance and safety checks.
The affected aircraft is now undergoing a detailed examination by Air India's maintenance crew and aviation authorities. The investigation will focus on determining the root cause of the APU failure and implementing preventative measures to avoid similar incidents in the future. Passengers who were scheduled on subsequent flights using the same aircraft have been rebooked on alternative flights, minimizing disruption to travel plans.
This incident serves as a reminder of the inherent complexities of air travel and the stringent safety measures in place to mitigate risks. Air India has a long history of safe operations, and the airline is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and reliability for its passengers. Further updates on the investigation and the aircraft’s return to service will be provided as they become available.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.