An Air India Express flight carrying over 180 passengers was forced to return to Kannur International Airport in Kerala on Tuesday after pilots detected a technical issue with the aircraft's engine approximately two hours into the journey to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

The flight departed Kannur at 7:40 AM. However, while en route, the crew received an engine warning indication and decided to turn the aircraft back as a precautionary measure, airport sources said.

The aircraft remained airborne for some time and circled the airport to reduce fuel weight — a standard safety procedure carried out prior to an unscheduled return — before landing safely. All passengers and crew members were unharmed.

Fuel filter fault identified

Following the aircraft's return, a technical inspection revealed an issue with the fuel filter, sources confirmed. Officials said the fault triggered the warning that prompted the crew to abort the journey.

"The flight crew chose to return to Kannur after identifying a technical problem during the journey. Safety remains our highest priority in every aspect of our operations," an Air India Express spokesperson said.

 Alternative aircraft arranged

The airline has arranged an alternative aircraft for the onward journey to Jeddah. Passengers have been provided with refreshments and hotel accommodation, the spokesperson added.

"We regret the inconvenience," the airline said in a statement.

The incident occurred on an Air India Express service operating from Kannur, Kerala, to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with more than 180 passengers onboard.

Officials confirmed the aircraft completed a safe landing and that there was no immediate danger to passengers at any point during the incident.

 Investigation underway

The airline has begun examining the technical fault that prompted the return. Further details about the specific nature of the fuel filter issue are awaited.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has been notified about the incident, sources said. A formal investigation into the technical glitch is expected to be conducted.

Passengers who were onboard have been accommodated in hotels while arrangements for the alternative flight are being finalised.