Cockroach Sighting on Air India Flight Prompts Passenger Relocation and Deep Cleaning

Air India confirmed on Monday that two passengers on a San Francisco to Mumbai flight were moved to different seats after they reported spotting cockroaches on board.

The incident occurred on Flight AI180, which operates from San Francisco to Mumbai with a stopover in Kolkata. According to the airline, the passengers raised concerns about the presence of “a few small cockroaches,” prompting the cabin crew to relocate them to alternate seats within the same cabin. “The passengers were comfortable thereafter,” Air India said in an official statement.

During the flight’s scheduled refueling stop in Kolkata, the aircraft underwent a thorough cleaning. Air India noted that a full investigation would be launched to identify the source of the issue and prevent similar incidents in the future.

“Despite our regular fumigation efforts, insects can sometimes enter an aircraft during ground operations,” the airline explained. “We are committed to ensuring a clean and safe flying experience for all passengers and regret any inconvenience caused.”

Air India also issued an apology to the affected passengers for the disruption.