A Delhi-bound Emirates flight from Dubai suffered a bird hit on arrival, forcing the airline to delay the return flight by over 14 hours.

The return flight was scheduled to depart at 4.25 pm on Saturday and is expected to depart at 7 am on Sunday, Emirates informed its passengers.

"Emirates flight EK517 from Dubai to Delhi on 17 October encountered a bird strike on arrival. As a result, the return flight EK517 from Delhi to Dubai will be delayed while the aircraft undergoes necessary repairs," the Gulf airline said in a media statement without sharing crucial details such as the number of passengers on board.

Hotel accommodation is being arranged for affected passengers, Emirates said.

The flight is now expected to depart at 7 am Delhi local time on October 18, it added.

Emirates apologises for any inconvenience caused, it noted.