Air India Airbus A321 Grounded After Tail Strike During Landing Attempt in Bengaluru

An Air India flight from Delhi to Bengaluru was grounded on Thursday after the aircraft suffered a tail strike while attempting to land at Kempegowda International Airport.

The incident involved an Airbus A321 operating as flight AI2651. According to airline officials, the rear section of the aircraft touched the runway during the landing process. Despite the impact, the aircraft landed safely and all 181 passengers and crew members exited without injuries.

Sources familiar with the matter said the aircraft ran into strong wake turbulence as it neared the runway. The disturbance was reportedly caused by a larger aircraft that had taken off shortly before. The sudden turbulence forced the pilots to abandon the landing and carry out a go around procedure. During that maneuver, the tail section of the plane struck the runway surface.

Aviation experts explain that wake turbulence occurs when aircraft generate lift, creating rotating air currents behind them. These invisible vortexes can affect nearby aircraft, especially smaller planes flying through the same path.

Following the incident, Air India canceled the return flight to Delhi so engineers could carry out detailed technical checks on the aircraft. Ground staff also assisted affected passengers in arranging alternate travel plans.

The airline said a full investigation will be conducted along with aviation authorities to determine the exact cause of the incident.