Air India aircraft hits tail on Bengaluru landing, return Delhi flight cancelled

An Air India flight operating from Delhi to Bengaluru suffered a tail strike while landing at Bengaluru International Airport on Wednesday, the airline confirmed.

The incident involved flight AI2651, which landed safely despite the impact. Air India said all passengers and crew members disembarked normally and no injuries were reported.

Following the incident, the aircraft has been grounded for a comprehensive technical inspection. 

The airline stated that an investigation will be conducted as per standard aviation safety procedures to determine the cause of the tail strike.

A tail strike occurs when the rear section of an aircraft touches the runway during take-off or landing, often due to improper landing angle or adverse conditions.

Due to the grounding of the aircraft, the return service AI2652 from Bengaluru to Delhi has been cancelled. Air India said it is making alternative arrangements to assist affected passengers and ensure they reach their destinations at the earliest.

The airline has not yet disclosed the extent of damage to the aircraft.