Key Points
Flight AI126 returned to Chicago after 11 of 12 toilets failed
Passengers offered full refunds and rescheduling
Technical issue occurred 5 hours into 14-hour journey
Incident highlights critical aircraft maintenance challenges
The spokesperson further said that alternative arrangements were made in time for the passengers to take them to their destination.
"AI126 operating Chicago to Delhi on 6 March 2025 air-returned to Chicago due to a technical issue. Upon landing at Chicago, all passengers and crew disembarked normally and have been provided with accommodation to minimise inconvenience," the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson further said that they were being given full refunds on cancellation and complimentary rescheduling.
"Alternative arrangements are being made to fly the passengers to their destination. In addition, full refunds on cancellation and complimentary rescheduling are also being offered to passengers if opted by them. At Air India, the safety and wellbeing of our customers and crew remain top priority," the spokesperson said.
The passengers suffered a 10-hour trip to nowhere because all but one of its toilets allegedly became clogged and inoperable. Air India Flight 126 was making its way over Greenland on March 5 when 11 out of its 12 toilets broke down, with the only working toilet located in the business class section for some 300 passengers to use, The New York Post reported.
The issue arose merely 5 hours into the 14-hour trip, forcing the airliner to head back to Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, as per NYP.
As per NYP, the passengers claimed they were forced to jump through hoops to get their flights rescheduled or refunded.
Just one or two clogged toilets may trigger a flight crew to turn the plane around and land due to the limited number of lavatories available onboard, New York Post reported.
