Air India Express Diverts to Uttar Pradesh Following Smoke Alarm Activation, Pilot Issues Mayday Call

An Air India Express flight en route to Delhi from Abu Dhabi was forced to make an emergency landing in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, due to a smoke alarm alert in the cockpit. The incident occurred on March 31, 2026.

Upon detecting the alarm, the pilot issued a Mayday call to ensure a safe and swift landing at Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport. The aircraft landed without incident, and passengers were evacuated safely.

Air India officials confirmed that all safety protocols were followed during the emergency landing. Following the incident, the plane underwent a thorough inspection by ground personnel to determine the cause of the smoke alarm. The airport authority provided necessary assistance to the passengers, ensuring they were accommodated and informed regarding their onward travel plans.

Emergency landings due to in-flight alerts, while rare, underscore the importance of aircraft safety systems and the swift response of aviation crews in ensuring passenger safety.