Air India Flight Returns to Chicago After 10 Hours Due to Clogged Toilets

An Air India flight from Chicago to Delhi returned after 10 hours due to 11 clogged lavatories. The airline provided accommodation, refunds, and rescheduling options. The aircraft was grounded for maintenance, and alternative travel plans were arranged for passengers.

An Air India flight bound for Delhi from Chicago was forced to return mid-journey after 11 out of 12 lavatories on board became clogged, rendering them unusable. The flight, carrying around 300 passengers, had already spent about four and a half hours in the air and had crossed Greenland before the airline decided to turn back to Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

Air India officially described the situation as a “technical issue.” Upon landing, all passengers and crew disembarked safely, and the airline provided accommodation to those affected. Passengers were also offered full refunds or complimentary rescheduling options to minimize inconvenience.

Flight AI126 had initially embarked on a 14-hour journey to Delhi but had to make a difficult decision to return as only one lavatory in the business class section remained functional. According to aviation safety guidelines, crew members can decide to turn a flight around even if a few lavatories become inoperable, especially on long-haul routes.

The aircraft remained grounded in Chicago for two days for extensive maintenance and cleaning. Air India reassured customers that passenger safety and well-being remain their top priorities, and alternative travel arrangements were being made for those affected.

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This incident highlights the operational challenges airlines face during long-haul flights and underscores the critical role of onboard facilities in ensuring passenger comfort. The airline has not disclosed what caused the blockage but is likely to review its maintenance protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future.