Return flight EK517 to Dubai rescheduled to Sunday morning as engineers conduct safety inspections and repairs; affected passengers provided hotel accommodation
NEW DELHI : An Emirates flight bound for Dubai was delayed overnight on Saturday after the inbound aircraft struck a bird while touching down at New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, prompting safety inspections and repairs.
The bird strike occurred on Saturday, October 17, when the aircraft operating Emirates flight EK517 completed its journey from Dubai to Delhi. The subsequent return leg to Dubai was immediately halted to allow technical crews to evaluate the airframe and engines for damage.
Emirates confirmed that the flight has been rescheduled to depart Delhi at 07:00 local time on Sunday, October 18. Stranded travelers have been moved to local hotels, with meals and logistics managed by airport ground staff.
“Emirates flight EK517 from Dubai to Delhi on 17 October encountered a bird strike on arrival. As a result, the return flight EK517 from Delhi to Dubai will be delayed while the aircraft undergoes necessary repairs,” an Emirates spokesperson said.
The carrier emphasized that operations would resume only after engineers issue complete technical clearance. “Emirates apologises for any inconvenience caused. The safety of our passengers and crew is of the utmost importance and will not be compromised,” the spokesperson added.
Aviation safety protocols require thorough structural and internal engine inspections following wildlife strikes, which occur predominantly during low-altitude phases such as descent, landing, and takeoff roll. Even minor impacts can fracture turbine fan blades, dent engine cowlings, or degrade sensor telemetry, mandating comprehensive testing before an airliner can return to commercial service.
Ground teams at Terminal 3 in Delhi were working through Saturday evening to coordinate hotel transfers, baggage reticketing, and onward connections for passengers transiting through Dubai International Airport.
