Air India Express flight returns to Vizag after suspected bird strike

Although the exact cause of the engine trouble is still under investigation, a bird strike is suspected to be the likely trigger.

The flight, IX 2658, took off from Visakhapatnam with 103 passengers on board when the pilot detected a possible engine malfunction. He immediately requested clearance for an emergency return, PTI reported.

"After departing Vizag, the pilot reported a problem with the engine. So, he asked for an emergency landing and returned to Vizag. The flight landed safely, and passengers were deboarded," Purushottam told PTI, adding that the airline was making alternative arrangements.