iNDICA NEWS BUREAU –
An Air India flight en route from Delhi to San Francisco was forced to make an unscheduled landing in Siberia due to technical difficulties that occurred on July 18.
Flight AI-183, carrying passengers and crew, has touched down safely at Krasnoyarsk International Airport (UNKL) in Russia’s Krasnoyarsk Krai region.
The long-haul flight, which typically takes approximately 16 hours, was diverted several hours into its journey across Asia. Air India officials have not yet disclosed the specific nature of the technical problem that necessitated the emergency landing.
In a statement released on social media, Air India assured passengers and their families that the situation was under control. “The aircraft has landed safely, and we are working with relevant authorities to ensure guests are taken care of while we decide the next course of action,” the airline said. It emphasized that the “safety and wellbeing of our customers and crew remains top priority.”
Krasnoyarsk International Airport, located in central Siberia, serves as a key transportation hub for the region. While equipped to handle international flights, it is an unusual destination for a transpacific journey between India and the United States.
Although diversions due to technical issues are not common, they are a standard safety precaution when potential problems arise during flight. The quick decision-making by the flight crew to land at Krasnoyarsk underscores the airline industry’s commitment to passenger safety.
As of now, there is no estimated time for when the flight will resume its journey to San Francisco. Air India has stated that they will provide updates as more information becomes available.