Cockroach Chaos on Air India Flight from US to Mumbai; Airline Shifts Passengers, Orders Probe

An unusual incident on board Air India flight AI180 from San Francisco to Mumbai via Kolkata has once again brought the airline into the spotlight. Two passengers reported spotting cockroaches mid-flight, leading to discomfort and surprise on board. Air India has acknowledged the issue, calling the insects “unwanted and ticketless passengers.”

What Happened on the Flight?

The incident took place during the San Francisco to Kolkata leg of the journey. According to Air India, two passengers noticed cockroaches near their seats and complained to the cabin crew. The airline relocated both passengers to alternative seats in the same cabin for a more comfortable journey.

Air India Responds

In an official statement, Air India said:

"Despite our regular fumigation processes, sometimes small insects can enter the aircraft during ground operations."

The airline added that the aircraft underwent thorough cleaning during its scheduled refueling stop in Kolkata, and was dispatched to Mumbai on time after the issue was resolved.

Investigation Ordered

While apologizing for the inconvenience caused, the airline downplayed the severity, suggesting that such issues occasionally happen despite preventive efforts. However, an internal probe has been launched to identify the source and prevent such incidents in the future.

This isn’t the first time Air India has faced operational criticism, but cockroaches on an intercontinental flight have raised serious concerns about hygiene and in-flight standards.