Air India aircraft suffers ‘tailstrike’ on runway during landing; crew and passengers safe

May 21, 2026

An Air India aircraft experienced a “tailstrike” incident today while landing at Bengaluru Airport. Officials stated that the aircraft, arriving from Delhi, landed safely, and the crew and passengers disembarked normally.

A tailstrike occurs when the rear section of an aircraft comes into contact with the runway during takeoff or landing. Following a tailstrike, all aircraft undergo inspections to check for structural integrity issues. A total of 181 passengers were on board the aircraft.

Alternative Arrangements Being Made: Airline
Officials reported that following the tailstrike incident, Air India flight AI2651 a narrow-body Airbus A321 has been grounded for inspection. Consequently, its return flight to Delhi has been cancelled. The Tata-owned airline stated that alternative arrangements are being made to accommodate the affected passengers as soon as possible.

The airline added, “Our ground teams in Bengaluru are providing all necessary assistance.” It further stated that an investigation into the incident would be conducted in accordance with established procedures and in coordination with regulatory authorities.

An airline spokesperson stated, “Air India regrets the inconvenience caused. The safety of our passengers and crew remains our utmost priority.” According to sources, a Boeing 747 had taken off just moments before the Air India flight reached the final stages of its landing approach.

Sources indicated that the engines of the Boeing 747 generated air turbulence; sensing that this could potentially complicate the landing, the Air India pilot decided to execute a “go-around” maneuver in accordance with standard operating procedures.