Air India on Monday issued an apology and said it launched a probe after passengers on its San Francisco-Mumbai flight reported spotting cockroaches mid-air.
The incident occurred on flight AI 180, which has a stopover in Kolkata. According to an Air India spokesperson, two passengers complained about “a few small cockroaches” during the journey.
“Our cabin crew, therefore, relocated the two passengers to other seats in the same cabin, where they were comfortable thereafter,” the spokesperson said.
During the scheduled fuel stop in Kolkata, ground crew conducted a deep cleaning of the aircraft to address the issue. The flight subsequently departed on time for its final destination in Mumbai.
“Despite our regular fumigation efforts, insects can sometimes enter an aircraft during ground operations. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused to the passengers,” the airline added.
Air India also said it would conduct a “comprehensive investigation” to determine the source and cause of the incident and take preventive measures to ensure it does not recur.
The incident comes at a time when the Tata Group-owned carrier is already facing heat for persistent operational challenges, including delays, service complaints, and maintenance issues. The airline is also under intense scrutiny following the deadly Dreamliner crash in June and findings of a host of safety violations in an audit by aviation watchdog DGCA.
