‘Closely monitoring the situation…’: US after San Francisco-bound Air India flight diverted to Russia

air india flight
Image Source : PTI/Representational Air India flight to San Francisco diverted to Russia

Air India flight: After an Air India flight bound for San Francisco made an emergency landing in Russia, the United States said it was “closely monitoring” the situation. Addressing a regular press briefing, State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel said the situation was being constantly monitored as the US-bound flight made an emergency landing in Russia.

“I have not been able to confirm how many US citizens were on board the flight at this time. This was a flight that was bound for the United States. So, it is certainly likely that there are US citizens on board, ” They said. Responding to a question, Patel further said, “There is public reporting from Air India that they are sending – what is my understanding – a replacement aircraft to the destination to take the passengers on their way , But I will postpone the air travel.” carrier to discuss anything further on this.”

Air India flight diverted to Magadan, Russia

Earlier on Tuesday (June 6), an Air India flight from Delhi to San Francisco was diverted to Magadan in Russia due to engine failure. The Tata Group-owned private carrier said the flight carrying 216 passengers and 16 crew landed safely.

Air India said, “Air India flight AI173 of June 6, which was operating Delhi-San Francisco, developed a technical problem with one of its engines. The flight carrying 216 passengers and 16 crew was diverted and landed safely at Magadan airport in Russia.” in the statement. It further said that the aircraft underwent mandatory checks and all assistance was provided to them on the ground.

Read also: India deserves to have non-stop flights to more foreign destinations: Air India CEO

Air India’s recent controversies

Notably, after the completion of the sale by the Government of India, the former owner of Air India Limited, Air India is owned by Tales Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons. Significantly, Air India has been facing flak from its customers and social media users for a similar incident in which Shankar Mishra allegedly urinated on his co-passenger in an inebriated state on November 26 last year. Since then, it has been making headlines for various reasons – for the “poor quality” of food services and poor seating arrangements.

(with inputs from agencies)

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