Air India Flight Returns to Chicago After Toilets Clogged by Improperly Disposed Items

The Chicago-to-Delhi flight was forced to turn back after 10 hours in the air as most lavatories became unusable due to flushed rags, plastic bags, and clothing.

Air India Flight AI126 from Chicago to Delhi returned to Chicago on March 5 after 8 of its 12 toilets became clogged mid-flight.
The airline's investigation revealed that rags, polythene bags, and clothing were improperly flushed, causing the plumbing system to fail.
The Boeing 777-300ER jet, carrying around 300 passengers, was over Greenland when the decision was made to return due to limited diversion options at European airports during nighttime.
Passengers were provided hotel accommodations and alternative travel arrangements, with full refunds or complimentary rescheduling options offered.
The incident has drawn criticism online, with some questioning passenger behavior and others highlighting broader concerns about airline maintenance and service quality.