Air India Flight from San Francisco to Delhi Makes Emergency Stop in Mongolia Over Technical Concern

Published on November 3, 2025

On November 2, an Air India flight en route from San Francisco to Delhi was forced to make an emergency stop in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The diversion came after the flight crew raised concerns about a possible technical issue during the journey.

The aircraft, flight AI174, was scheduled to travel from San Francisco to Delhi, with a brief stop in Kolkata. However, during the mid-flight, the crew took a precautionary measure by landing at Ulaanbaatar’s Chinggis Khaan International Airport.

According to an official statement from Air India, the decision to land was made out of an abundance of caution. The airline confirmed that the plane landed safely and has since been grounded for thorough inspections. Passengers aboard the flight were unharmed, and no further complications were reported at the time of landing.

Why the Landing in Mongolia Happened

The flight from San Francisco to Delhi is one of the longest routes operated by Air India, spanning across thousands of miles. These long-haul flights are often subject to unpredictable factors such as changing weather conditions, air traffic control decisions, and, occasionally, technical issues with the aircraft.

Air India emphasized that the precautionary landing was a safety measure. The flight crew, who are trained for such scenarios, took swift action to ensure the safety of all passengers. The airline spokesperson reassured travelers that the aircraft was now undergoing necessary checks to confirm its safety.

Air India’s Response and Support for Passengers

Air India assured passengers that they were doing everything possible to minimize disruption. The airline confirmed that the crew was working with local authorities in Mongolia and other partners to ensure all passengers were taken care of.

According to Air India, once the necessary inspections were completed, the aircraft would resume its journey to Delhi, albeit with some delays. The airline offered full support to the passengers, including arranging accommodation and assistance in Mongolia if necessary.

What It Means for International Travelers

For global travelers, particularly those using long-haul flights like the San Francisco to Delhi route, this incident highlights the importance of aviation safety. While rare, technical issues can arise, prompting immediate action to ensure the wellbeing of everyone on board.

For travelers flying from major international hubs such as San Francisco, Air India’s operational practices have consistently demonstrated a commitment to passenger safety and operational excellence. This incident serves as a reminder that airlines, despite their best efforts to ensure smooth flights, sometimes face challenges that require quick decision-making.

What You Can Expect from Air India’s Long-Haul Flights

For tourists traveling between the United States and India, Air India’s direct flights are a popular choice due to their convenience and comfort. Passengers can expect modern amenities, including in-flight entertainment, meals, and a comfortable cabin environment. However, like all international flights, it is always wise to remain prepared for unforeseen events.

Despite the brief disruption, Air India remains committed to providing safe and reliable service for travelers to India. For passengers traveling to or from Delhi, this incident should not deter future travel plans, as such precautionary measures are taken to ensure ultimate safety.

Conclusion

The emergency landing of Air India’s flight from San Francisco to Delhi in Mongolia underscores the airline’s priority on passenger safety. Although the flight was temporarily delayed, all passengers were safe, and the situation was handled professionally. Air India continues to ensure the swift and efficient processing of passengers to get them back on their way as quickly as possible.