Air India flight AI116 from New York to Mumbai diverted to Medina, Saudi Arabia, on March 19, 2026, due to a false aft cargo fire indication in the cockpit. The Boeing 777 landed safely and resumed its journey to Mumbai after inspection.
On Thursday afternoon, March 19, 2026, Air India flight AI116 from New York (JFK) to Mumbai was diverted to Medina, Saudi Arabia, following an aft cargo fire indication in the cockpit. The Boeing 777 made a priority landing at Medina. The airline stated: “Air India flight AI116, operating from New York (JFK) to Mumbai, was diverted to Medina, Saudi Arabia, following an aft cargo fire indication in the cockpit.” The statement added: “The aircraft landed safely without incident. Subsequent inspection of the aircraft after landing confirmed that the indication was false.” An official said the plane was cleared for operations after inspection and took off for Mumbai. No injuries or damage were reported.