Passengers on an Air India flight from Chicago to Delhi faced an unexpected 10-hour journey to nowhere after their flight had to turn back due to clogged lavatories. The aircraft, a Boeing 777-300ER operating flight AI126, returned to Chicago O’Hare International Airport mid-flight after nine out of ten onboard lavatories became unusable.
The airline confirmed that the flight had to return due to a “technical issue,” ensuring that all passengers and crew disembarked safely upon landing. Air India also stated that alternative arrangements were being made for affected travelers and that accommodations were provided to minimize inconvenience.
A person familiar with the situation revealed that only one business-class lavatory remained functional during the flight, making it nearly impossible to accommodate all passengers. As a result, the airline decided it was best to return to its departure point rather than continue the long-haul journey to India.
This incident highlights the challenges airlines face with in-flight maintenance and the importance of properly functioning facilities on long-haul routes. While Air India has not detailed what led to the lavatory malfunction, it is likely that the blockage was caused by improper disposal of non-flushable items, a common issue on commercial flights.
Passengers were left frustrated by the ordeal, with many expressing disappointment over the significant delay. Some travelers took to social media to share their experiences, with one passenger humorously commenting, “Never thought a toilet issue would take me on a 10-hour round trip!”
Air India has assured passengers that they are working swiftly to rebook .
