A Bangalore-bound Akasa Air flight from here had to return to the airport because of a burning smell in the cabin, which was later determined to be the result of a bird strike.
Investigative work is being done by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
It was impossible to determine the exact number of passengers on board the flight right away. “Due to the burning smell in the cabin, the aircraft VT-YAE, operating Akasa Air flight AKJ1103 from Mumbai to Bangalore, was forced to make an air turnback. The official reported that the smell got worse as the thrust got stronger.
No other abnormality, including with regard to engine parameters, was seen. He added, “The burning smell was due to bird strike,” and stated, “After landing during the inspection, bird remains were found on engine number 1 of the aircraft.”
Akasa Air confirmed in a statement that its Bangalore flight had to return to Mumbai due to an odour in the cabin brought on by the bird strike: “The aircraft landed safely in Mumbai and all passengers were deboarded. They were accommodated in their travel plans.
The aircraft was positioned (grounded) for a thorough inspection and has now returned to service, it was added. Arrangements were made to accommodate their journey. This year’s Akasa Air launched its operations on August 7.
