NEW DELHI: Air India said that the flight AI173D from Magadan, Russia (GDX) is now airborne for San Francisco carrying all passengers and crew.

Due to a problem with one of its engines, Air India aircraft AI173, which was travelling from Delhi to San Francisco, was forced to make an emergency landing at Magadan airport on Tuesday. The airline deployed an alternative flight, AI173D, from Mumbai to Magadan airport on June 7.

Air India has recruited additional on-ground assistance at SFO to complete the clearance requirements for all passengers upon arrival, according to a statement released by the airline on Thursday. "The team at SFO is prepared to provide all necessary assistance to the passengers, including but not limited to medical care, ground transportation, and onward connections in applicable cases," it said.

Due to a technical issue, the Boeing 777-200 LR aircraft, which was carrying 216 passengers and 16 crew members, had safely landed in the outlying Russian town of Magadan on Tuesday. The crew and passengers were then housed in improvised quarters in the far-off Russian town.

Language hurdles, strange cuisine, and subpar accommodations were challenges faced by passengers, especially young children and senior citizens. Less than 50 Americans were on board the aeroplane, according to the US Department of State.

"From what we can tell, there weren't even 50 US citizens on board. Vedant Patel, the State Department's deputy spokesperson, said on Wednesday, "We also hear that a rescue aircraft is anticipated to arrive later today to help the Air India flight and the passengers continue on their way.

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