Passengers aboard Air India flight AI180 from San Francisco to Mumbai encountered an unsettling surprise when multiple cockroaches were discovered in their seating area.
Upon reporting the issue to flight attendants, the affected passengers were promptly reseated, and the aircraft continued its journey without further incident.
However, the presence of these pests prompted a thorough deep cleaning of the aircraft during a scheduled stopover in Kolkata, though the flight was not delayed and departed on time.
This incident marks a troubling trend for Air India, which has faced similar unpleasant situations involving cockroaches on previous flights.
The AI180 service is a regularly scheduled commercial route that begins at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and ends at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai, with a stop at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata.
According to tracking data from Flightradar24, the flight utilizes Boeing 777-200LR jets.
Following the incident, an Air India statement addressed the situation, stating, “two passengers were unfortunately bothered by the presence of a few small cockroaches on board.”
It was emphasized that the guests were allowed to change seats within the same cabin, underscoring the airline’s commitment to passenger comfort.
The airline also noted that despite regular fumigation procedures, insects can occasionally make their way onto aircraft during ground operations.
In response to the incident, Air India pledged to initiate a comprehensive investigation to identify the source of the cockroach infiltration and to implement measures aimed at preventing future occurrences.
Interestingly, flight AI180’s route history shows that it used to operate non-stop to Mumbai until May 31, 2023.
Restrictions on Indian airlines flying through Pakistani airspace due to ongoing geopolitical issues have since forced adjustments to its flight path, resulting in longer routes over the Pacific Ocean.
This change has, however, proven beneficial in managing the recent cockroach issue, as it allowed for a layover in Kolkata where thorough cleaning could take place.
The flight, despite these complications, adhered to its schedule, departing from San Francisco at 20:00 and arriving in Kolkata at 00:45 two days later, with the onward journey to Mumbai resuming shortly thereafter.
Yet this incident is not without precedent.
In September 2024, another Air India flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi to John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York faced a similar situation that captured media attention.
A passenger on that flight posted images and videos on social media showing a cockroach found in their food, which had been partially consumed by the passenger’s child, who later fell ill from food poisoning.
This series of incidents raises vital questions about the airline’s post-flight cleaning and pest control protocols, as passenger safety and hygiene remain paramount for any airline.
As Air India moves forward, vigilance in maintaining aircraft cleanliness and addressing passenger concerns will be crucial to preserving its reputation and ensuring a positive flying experience.
image source from：simpleflying
