18.02.2026 09:03
A passenger plane traveling from the United States to India decided to turn back due to the toilets malfunctioning and emitting a bad odor in the cabin due to heavy usage. The captain canceled the flight and directed the plane back to the departure point due to technical and hygiene issues.
A passenger plane taking off from the USA to India returned to its departure point due to the continuous use of the restrooms leading to their malfunction and the spread of a bad odor in the cabin. According to reports in the foreign press, the captain canceled the flight due to technical issues along with conditions affecting hygiene and passenger comfort.
THE PLANE STAYED IN THE AIR FOR NEARLY 10 HOURS
According to People, the Air India flight from Chicago to New Delhi returned to Chicago after staying in the air for approximately 10 hours. The report stated that 8 out of the 12 restrooms on the plane became unusable, causing serious discomfort for the passengers.
ONLY ONE WORKING RESTROOM REMAINED IN BUSINESS CLASS
Reports from India Today and Hindustan Times noted that with the majority of the restrooms out of service, usage in the cabin concentrated at a single point, and due to the presence of hundreds of passengers on the plane, the problem escalated quickly.
DETECTION OF "INAPPROPRIATE MATERIAL"
In a statement from Air India reported by India Today, it was mentioned that inspection teams identified materials blocking the restroom plumbing; among these were polyethylene bags, pieces of cloth, and clothing-like waste. The company emphasized that such incidents render restrooms "unusable."
WHY DIDN'T IT LAND IN ANOTHER COUNTRY?
People's report included information that factors such as "night operation restrictions" played a role in the decision to return to the USA instead of heading to an airport in Europe. The airline stated that it provided accommodation and alternative flight arrangements for passengers after landing, offering full refunds or free rebooking options.