Hundreds of passengers returning to India from Italy for Diwali had their festive plans disrupted after Air India cancelled its Milan-Delhi flight (AI-138) due to a technical fault. The airline stated that the decision was taken keeping the safety of passengers in mind.
Technical Glitch Grounds Milan-Delhi Flight
According to Air India, flight AI-138, scheduled to operate from Milan to Delhi on October 17, 2025, was cancelled due to extended technical requirements in the designated aircraft. The airline emphasised that passenger and crew safety remained its top priority.
Accommodation And Assistance For Stranded Passengers
Air India said that all 255 passengers and 10 crew members were provided hotel accommodation, though some arrangements had to be made outside the airport vicinity due to limited availability. The airline has rebooked passengers on alternate flights for October 20, 2025, or later, depending on seat availability with Air India and other airlines.
Special Arrangements For Visa-Expiring Passenger
One passenger, whose Schengen visa was set to expire on Monday, was rebooked on another airline’s Sunday flight. The airline also confirmed that all affected passengers continue to receive meals and necessary ground assistance.
Air India Expresses Regret, Prioritises Safety
Apologising for the inconvenience, Air India reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its passengers and crew.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner VT-ANN had taken off from Delhi on Friday (Oct 17) at 2.54 pm as AI 137 and it reached its destination about nine hours later after taking a longer route bypassing Pakistan airspace. On landing in Italy, a technical issue was detected on the aircraft, which could be rectified in time to operate the return AI 138 to Delhi.