Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 5: An Air India flight from San Francisco to Mumbai was subjected to deep cleaning during a scheduled stopover in Kolkata after passengers spotted cockroaches on board, prompting the airline to launch a full-scale investigation.

The incident occurred on Flight AI180, operated by a Boeing 777, and was reported by two passengers who noticed the pests mid-flight. In response, cabin crew promptly relocated them to alternative seats in the same cabin.

“Despite our regular fumigation efforts, insects can sometimes enter the aircraft during ground handling,” an Air India spokesperson said on Monday. “We deeply regret the inconvenience caused and will undertake a comprehensive investigation to identify the source and implement corrective measures.”

The flight had a scheduled refueling stop in Kolkata, where Air India’s ground crew conducted a deep cleaning before the aircraft continued its journey to Mumbai on schedule.

While the exact number of passengers onboard was not disclosed, the airline stressed that such incidents are rare and reassured the public of its ongoing safety and hygiene protocols.

The incident has triggered concern among flyers and aviation observers, especially in light of Air India's global expansion plans and recent efforts to upgrade passenger experience across long-haul routes.