New Delhi: A Delhi-bound Air India flight had to make an emergency U-turn back to Chicago after a technical issue — reportedly clogged toilets — left passengers stranded for 10 hours.
Flight AI126 was over Greenland on March 5 when 11 out of its 12 toilets became unusable, leaving nearly 300 passengers dependent on a single lavatory in the business class section. Citing a spokesperson, ANI stated that alternative travel arrangements were being made for the affected passengers.
In a statement, Air India confirmed that the flight, operating on March 6, returned to Chicago due to a technical issue. “Upon landing, all passengers and crew disembarked normally and were provided accommodation to minimize inconvenience,” the airline said.
A video circulating online shows frustrated passengers discussing the situation with a cabin crew member. Social media users pointed out that clogged airplane toilets are not uncommon, often caused by passengers flushing unauthorized items. Even a few blocked lavatories can be enough for a flight to turn back due to limited onboard facilities.
