#JustIn: Air India SATS Shuttle Bus Catches Fire at Delhi Airport, No Injuries Reported

A shuttle bus operated by Air India SATS, the ground-handling division of the Air India Group, caught fire on Tuesday afternoon in the apron area near a parking bay at Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. The CNG-powered vehicle had been dispatched to transport crew members of an Air India flight arriving from Hong Kong to Delhi. At the time of the incident, the bus was stationary in a secure operational zone, with its engine still running, awaiting the crew’s disembarkation from the aircraft.

According to sources within the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which oversees airport security, the fire originated suddenly in the rear engine compartment. The driver, the sole occupant, promptly evacuated the vehicle without injury. No passengers were on board, and the flight crew remained securely inside the aircraft throughout the event, adhering to standard safety protocols. The CISF immediately cordoned off the surrounding area to prevent unauthorized access and ensure operational containment.

Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) personnel, stationed within the airport premises, responded within minutes and successfully extinguished the flames. Despite the rapid intervention, approximately 30 percent of the bus—primarily the rear section—was damaged by the fire. Delhi airport authorities confirmed the effectiveness of the emergency response, noting that the incident posed no risk to passengers, staff, or ongoing flight operations.

Also Read: Air India Mumbai-Newark Flight Makes Emergency Return; Passengers Left Stranded

Local police were alerted to the fire at approximately 1 p.m. Fire tenders, along with CISF and other relevant agencies, were deployed in a coordinated effort to manage the situation. A senior police officer stated that the bus contained no luggage and carried only the driver. A thorough forensic examination of the vehicle has been initiated to ascertain the precise cause of the ignition, with preliminary focus on potential mechanical or fuel system failures.

Air India has acknowledged the incident and requested additional time to conduct an internal review before issuing an official statement. The event, while contained without casualties, highlights the stringent safety measures in place at one of India’s busiest international airports. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and a detailed report is expected upon completion of the technical investigation. Flight schedules at Terminal 3 proceeded without interruption.

Also Read: Air India Unveils Major Winter Expansion with 174 New Weekly Flights