A Virgin Atlantic flight bound for London returned to Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport on Sunday after developing a technical problem shortly after take-off, with all approximately 270 passengers reported safe, according to sources at Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL).
The flight departed from Kempegowda International Airport at about 8.20 am but developed the issue soon after leaving Bengaluru, the BIAL sources said. The aircraft reportedly remained in the vicinity of Tumakuru for more than half an hour before the crew turned it around and brought it back to the airport.
The aircraft made what airport sources described as an emergency landing after returning to Bengaluru. BIAL, which operates the airport, said the plane was brought back as a safety precaution and that all passengers on board were safe.
The exact nature of the technical problem was not immediately known. Authorities were investigating the cause of the incident, according to the sources. No details were available on whether the aircraft sustained any damage or whether the flight would continue to London after the landing.
The flight was carrying approximately 270 passengers. The incident took place shortly after departure from Bengaluru, but there was no indication in the report of any injuries among passengers or crew. The aircraft’s return was handled by the flight crew after the technical issue was detected.
There was no immediate reaction from Virgin Atlantic when the report was published. Further details about the aircraft, the nature of the fault and the airline’s arrangements for passengers were awaited from the carrier and aviation authorities.
Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport is operated by BIAL. Authorities are expected to establish the cause of the technical issue as part of their investigation before any further operational details are confirmed.
