Bad weather once again disrupted air travel on Thursday, affecting an Air India flight flying from India to the UK. Due to severe weather conditions in the UK, the aircraft had to divert from its original destination. The airline confirmed that landing at the scheduled airport would have been unsafe and could have put passengers at risk. Scroll down to know more.
Air India Flights To The UK Diverted Due To Bad Weather
The first flight, AI131, was operating from Mumbai to London Heathrow. As per NDTV, the aircraft departed India on Thursday and reached UK airspace as scheduled. However, weather conditions around Heathrow took a dramatic turn by the time the Air India flight arrived. Strong winds and poor visibility prevented the aircraft from landing safely at the destination.
As a result, the Boeing 777 aircraft remained in a holding pattern near London for some time. When conditions did not improve, Air India decided to divert the flight to London Gatwick. The aircraft made a priority landing at Gatwick and landed safely. Airport and airline staff assisted all passengers after arrival, following standard procedures.
Also Read: 16 Flights Cancelled At Delhi Airport Due To Dense Fog; IndiGo, Air India Issue Advisories
Amritsar To Birmingham Flight
The second affected flight was AI117, which was flying from Amritsar to Birmingham. For this journey, the Boeing 787 aircraft was used. After reaching the UK, the flight attempted to land at Birmingham Airport, but due to adverse weather conditions, the task seemed to be impossible. Waiting for the right time, the aircraft circled in the air for a while but could not continue toward Birmingham.
Following safety protocols, Air India diverted the flight to London Heathrow instead. The aircraft made a priority landing at Heathrow and touched down safely. The airline arranged assistance for passengers after landing, as per standard guidelines.
According to The Times of India, Air India said both flights were diverted due to adverse weather conditions at their destination airports. The airline added that it provided necessary assistance to all affected passengers as per standard procedures.
We hope operations run smoothly and all passengers reach their destinations safely.
Also Read: Air India Might Get A New CEO; Campbell Wilson To Be Replaced, Here’s Why
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/ Nikhil Kulkarni