Air India’s Mumbai-London Route Diverted: Emergency Landing After 3 Hours

Air India flight bound for London from Mumbai was forced to make an emergency return to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport after three hours in the air. The diversion, triggered by the sudden closure of Iranian airspace amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, disrupted travel plans for hundreds of passengers. The incident highlights the ripple effects of geopolitical conflicts on global aviation.

Unexpected U-Turn

Flight AI129, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, departed Mumbai at 5:39 AM IST on June 13, 2025, en route to London’s Gatwick Airport. Approximately three hours into the journey, the aircraft was rerouted back to Mumbai due to Iran’s airspace closure, a decision prompted by heightened military activity in the region. Flightradar24 data showed the plane circling briefly before returning, landing safely at 8:45 AM IST. Air India cited passenger and crew safety as the primary reason for the diversion, aligning with international aviation protocols.

Geopolitical Disruptions

The closure of Iranian airspace followed reports of Israeli airstrikes on Tehran, escalating fears of a broader conflict. Iran’s aviation authority shut its airspace to all commercial flights, forcing airlines worldwide to reroute. Air India’s Mumbai-London flight, which typically crosses Iranian territory, was among several affected, with other carriers diverting to airports in Vienna, Jeddah, and Dubai. The disruption underscores how regional conflicts can impact major aviation routes, particularly for India-Europe flights reliant on Middle Eastern airspace.

Passenger Support and Next Steps

Air India promptly arranged accommodations and rebooking options for the affected passengers, offering refunds where requested. The airline is coordinating with authorities to resume the flight once alternative routes are cleared, likely via Central Asia or the Arabian Sea, though these add significant time and fuel costs. Passengers expressed frustration but appreciated the airline’s swift response, with many awaiting updates on rescheduled departures.
In conclusion, the emergency landing of Air India’s Mumbai-London flight after three hours in the air reflects the challenges posed by geopolitical unrest.