Air India London‑bound Flight AI2017 Aborts Takeoff in Delhi Due to Technical Glitch (July 31, 2025)

On Thursday, July 31, 2025, Flight AI2017, operating from New Delhi to London, aborted takeoff at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) after the cockpit crew detected a suspected technical issue during the takeoff roll. The aircraft — a Boeing 787‑9 Dreamliner was returned to its bay for precautionary inspection per standard operating procedures

The crew reportedly stopped the takeoff around 115 knots, then returned the aircraft to the terminal for further examination and safety checks. Air India stated that a replacement Boeing 787-9 (VT‑TSP) was arranged to fly the affected passengers to London later that evening. Passenger load details were not disclosed.

Broader Air India Safety & Operational Challenges

• This incident comes amid a series of technical disruptions and cancellations affecting Air India’s Boeing 787 fleet, following the tragic AI171 crash near Ahmedabad on June 12, which claimed over 240 lives. That tragedy triggered DGCA-mandated enhanced safety inspections across the entire 787 fleet, leading to multiple cancellations and reduced frequencies on international routes 
• In June 2025, Air India had to suspend or reduce flights on routes connecting India with Europe, North America, Australia, and East Asia, as part of its plan to restore schedule stability and manage aircraft turnaround delays, while Middle‑East airspace restrictions added to operational challenges.

• In recent weeks, multiple long‑haul flights, especially on 787 Dreamliners, were cancelled or delayed due to technical snags or aircraft unavailability, raising concerns about fleet readiness and ongoing maintenance processes.
• Detail Information
  Flight: AI2017 (Delhi → London, Boeing 787‑9)
  Date July 31, 2025
  Issue: Suspected technical malfunction during takeoff roll
  Action Takeoff aborted, plane returned for checks
  Resolution: Replacement aircraft arranged; delayed departure in the evening
  Passenger care: Ground support provided; minimised inconvenience
  Wider context: Ongoing safety checks and cancellations across the 787 fleet post-crash

• What Happens Next?
• Air India will likely complete detailed inspections on the aircraft involved (and possibly its fleet counterparts) before resuming further flights on this sector.
• The DGCA and Air India continue their safety audit and oversight, especially focused on Boeing 787 operations.
• Travellers on long‑haul routes should stay alert for possible flight delays or switches, and monitor Air India’s official communication channels and advisories.

-aviationinnepal