A Virgin Atlantic flight bound for London with 270 passengers on board was forced to make an emergency landing shortly after takeoff. The aircraft, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, departed from Kempegowda International Airport (KIAB) in Bengaluru, Karnataka, at approximately 8.20am on September 6. Soon after departure, the flight crew noticed a technical issue, prompting the decision to abort the journey and return to the airport.
Plane circles before safe landing
The crew circled the aircraft for more than half an hour before landing back at KIAB, where passengers were disembarked. The flight, designated VS317, was subsequently cancelled.
Airline response and passenger support
A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said: "The VS317 flight from Bengaluru to London Heathrow returned to Bengaluru shortly after departure due to a technical issue."
"The aircraft landed safely as a precaution and the flight was subsequently cancelled. The safety and security of our customers and crew is always our top priority. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused to our customers."
"Our teams are supporting those affected and are working hard to rebook them onto alternative services as quickly as possible."
