New Delhi

An Air India A350 wide-body aircraft sustained damage to its right engine after ingesting a cargo container while taxiing at the Delhi airport in dense fog on Thursday morning, sources said.

The airline confirmed that the aircraft has been grounded for detailed inspections and investigation, warning that some services operated using A350 aircraft may face disruptions.

In a statement, Air India said Flight AI101, scheduled to operate from Delhi to New York (JFK), was compelled to return to Delhi shortly after departure due to the sudden closure of Iranian airspace, which affected its planned flight path.

“After landing back in Delhi, the aircraft encountered a foreign object during taxiing amid dense fog conditions, leading to damage to the right engine. The aircraft was safely moved to its designated parking bay, and the safety of all passengers and crew was ensured,” the airline said.

According to sources, the foreign object involved was a cargo container, which was drawn into the engine, resulting in substantial damage.

Expressing regret over the inconvenience caused, Air India said it is extending assistance to affected passengers by offering alternative travel arrangements or refunds, depending on their preference.

READ MORE: Osama played Oud and stole the show at New Delhi World Book Fair

The airline added that operational assessments are underway to minimise the impact on its A350 network while safety checks and technical evaluations are carried out.