Representational file image. @DGCAIndia/X via PTI Photo

A Mumbai-bound Air India aircraft was diverted to Medina, Saudi Arabia, on Thursday (March 19, 2026) afternoon following an aft cargo fire indication in the cockpit that turned out to be false.

After inspection, the plane was cleared for operations and took off for Mumbai, an official said.

“Air India flight AI116, operating from New York (JFK) to Mumbai, was diverted to Medina, Saudi Arabia, following an aft cargo fire indication in the cockpit,” the airline said in a statement.

The Boeing 777 made a priority landing at Medina.

“The aircraft landed safely without incident. Subsequent inspection of the aircraft after landing confirmed that the indication was false,” the statement said.

Published – March 20, 2026 04:42 am IST