New Delhi: An Air India flight bound for London was forced to abort takeoff at Delhi airport on Thursday due to a suspected technical issue, media reports said.

Flight AI2017, which was scheduled to depart for London on July 31, returned to the bay after the cockpit crew decided to discontinue the takeoff run as a precaution, following standard operating procedures, the airline said in a statement to PTI.

The flight was to be operated using a Boeing 787-9 aircraft, according to a source.

“An alternative aircraft is being deployed to fly the passengers to London at the earliest. Our ground staff is extending all support and care to the guests to minimise inconvenience caused due to this unexpected delay,” the airline added.

The number of passengers onboard was not immediately available.