Air India Delhi–Mumbai Flight Returns After Engine Oil Pressure Drops to Zero

An Air India flight operating from Delhi to Mumbai was forced to return to the national capital shortly after take-off on Monday after the cockpit crew detected a critical drop in engine oil pressure mid-air.

Flight AI887, operated using a Boeing 777-337ER, departed from Indira Gandhi International Airport at around 3.20 am. Soon after departure, pilots noticed abnormally low oil pressure in the aircraft’s right-hand engine, identified as Engine No. 2. The pressure subsequently dropped to zero, prompting the crew to initiate standard emergency procedures.

Given the seriousness of the situation, the pilots decided to return to Delhi as a precautionary safety measure. The aircraft landed safely, and all passengers and crew members disembarked normally. No injuries were reported.

In aviation operations, an engine oil pressure drop to zero is treated as a critical safety concern. Engine oil is essential for cooling and lubrication, and inadequate pressure can lead to rapid overheating or potential engine failure if not addressed immediately.

Air India confirmed that the crew followed established safety protocols after receiving the engine parameter warning.

“The crew operating flight AI887 from Delhi to Mumbai on December 22 decided to return shortly after take-off due to a technical issue, in line with standard operating procedures. The aircraft landed safely in Delhi and passengers disembarked,” an airline spokesperson said.

The airline added that the aircraft is undergoing detailed technical inspections and will be cleared for service only after necessary checks are completed.

Air India’s ground staff assisted affected passengers at Delhi airport and arranged alternative travel options to Mumbai at the earliest.

The incident comes days after another Air India Express flight faced an engine-related technical snag prior to departure, renewing focus on aircraft maintenance and operational checks during the peak travel season.