On Tuesday, Air India said a technical issue with one of its engines prompted a Delhi-San Francisco flight to reroute and land in Russia’s Far East.
Air India said the jet had 16 crew members and 216 passengers, who are being supported on the ground and given other ways to reach their destinations.
Russia’s aviation regulator said it evaluated the plane’s mechanical condition after landing at Magadan airport and would allow the airline to land a reserve aircraft if needed.
Rosaviatsia stated border, customs, and regional agencies are addressing passengers’ accommodations.
Magadan’s airport, on the Sea of Okhotsk in Russia’s Far East, did not respond to a request for comment.
The Boeing (BA.N) 777 widebody aircraft was diverted a day after the world’s largest carrier’s boss highlighted safety worries about airlines flying over Russian airspace with American passengers onboard.
What happens if a plane with famous Americans lands in Russia? On Monday, United Airlines (UAL.O) CEO Scott Kirby called that a possible disaster.
“I think we should solve it before the crisis happens.” Air India refused to disclose passenger information.
Russia banned the U.S. and other foreign airlines from using its airspace in response to Washington prohibiting Russian flights over the U.S. in March 2022 after Moscow moved soldiers into Ukraine.
Air India and several Gulf-based, Chinese, and African carriers continue to fly over Russia, shortening flight durations and rendering American rivals uncompetitive.
In February, U.S. senators pushed the Biden administration to ban Chinese and other foreign airlines from flying over Russia on U.S. routes.
Last week, Reuters reported that four newly allowed Chinese aircraft to and from the U.S. bypassed Russian airspace.
The White House and G.E. (GE.N), which makes Boeing 777 engines, did not respond.
