Air India cancels Delhi-Paris flight after technical snag, disruption hits Europe services

Air India’s international operations took another hit on Tuesday, June 17, as the airline cancelled its Delhi to Paris flight (AI-143) following a technical issue detected during mandatory pre-flight checks. The snag, discovered just before departure, has forced the airline to also cancel the return leg from Paris to Delhi (AI-142) scheduled for Wednesday, June 18.

The development adds to a growing list of recent operational challenges faced by the Tata Group-owned carrier.

Technical Fault Grounds Delhi-Paris Route

The issue with flight AI-143 was identified during routine safety inspections at Delhi Airport. Though Air India confirmed that the technical problem is under assessment, the delay meant the aircraft could no longer meet the operational window of Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) Airport, which enforces strict night-time flying curbs.

“Flight AI143 from Delhi to Paris on 17 June has been cancelled. The mandatory pre-flight checks identified an issue, which is currently being resolved. However, due to Paris CDG’s night operation restrictions, the flight has been called off,” the airline said in a statement.

Passenger Support in Place

In response to the disruption, Air India is providing stranded passengers with hotel accommodations and offering either full refunds or complimentary rescheduling options. Additionally, the airline has assured affected customers that alternative travel arrangements are being organized at the earliest.

More Trouble: Ahmedabad-London Flight Also Cancelled

In a separate disruption, flight AI-159 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick was cancelled earlier today. The airline attributed the cancellation to global airspace restrictions and longer turnaround times caused by heightened safety protocols—not a mechanical fault, as initially speculated.

Pressure Mounts on Tata-Owned Carrier

These flight cancellations come amid rising scrutiny over Air India’s operational efficiency. With multiple long-haul international services now affected, the airline faces increasing pressure to stabilize its services and maintain customer trust ahead of the busy summer travel season.