Air India airbus A320 suffers tail strike during Bengaluru landing, flight cancelled

An Air India flight from Delhi to Bengaluru was grounded after a tail strike during landing on May 21. All 179 passengers and crew members were safe, while the airline cancelled the return flight for inspection.

Post Published By: Donika Singh

Updated : 21 May 2026, 4:39 PM IST

Air India Airbus A320 Suffers Tail Strike

New Delhi: An Air India flight travelling from Delhi to Bengaluru was grounded on Thursday after the aircraft experienced a tail strike while landing at Kempegowda International Airport. The incident involved flight AI2651, operated using a narrow-body Airbus A320 series aircraft.

The airline confirmed that all 179 people onboard, including passengers and crew members, were safe. According to the officials, the aircraft landed safely and passengers disembarked without any difficulty after arrival.

Detailed Inspection Ordered

Following the incident, Air India immediately withdrew the aircraft from operations for a comprehensive technical inspection. Airline officials stated that the standard safety protocols are being followed to assess any possible structural impact caused during landing.

A tail strike occurs when the rear section of an aircraft touches the runway during takeoff or landing. Aviation experts note that such incidents require detailed engineering checks before the aircraft can return to service.

Return Flight Cancelled

The scheduled return service from Bengaluru to Delhi was cancelled after the aircraft was grounded for inspection. Air India said the matter would be investigated in coordination with aviation regulators and relevant authorities as per established procedures.

The airline has not reported any injuries or major operational disruption beyond the cancellation of the return flight. Further details are expected after the inspection and regulatory review are completed.