Air India flight AI887 returned to Delhi shortly after takeoff when pilots detected zero oil pressure in the right-hand engine.
The Boeing 777-300ER departed at 3:20 AM for Mumbai but faced a sudden lubrication failure in Engine No. 2. The crew immediately initiated emergency procedures and circled to reduce fuel weight before landing safely. All passengers and crew exited without injuries.
The catastrophic drop in oil pressure indicated total lubrication failure. Engine oil pressure plays a vital role in cooling, sealing, and cleaning turbine components. Without oil, bearings, shafts, and gears seize under extreme heat, risking fire or engine disintegration. Modern engines like the GE90 and Trent 800 feature automated safeguards, including cockpit alerts, fuel shutoff valves, and fire suppression systems.
Pilots treated the incident as an engine-out scenario and relied on the remaining powerplant. Boeing 777 aircraft are certified for extended twin-engine operations, ensuring safe flight even with one engine inoperative. Air India confirmed the safe resolution and launched a technical investigation. Regulators will review flight data as part of the industry’s strict safety protocols.
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