Air India Plane Skids Off Mumbai Runway: What Caused It, How It Happened & What’s Next
Share this article:
A potentially serious aviation mishap was narrowly averted at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport when an Air India flight arriving from Kochi veered off the runway during landing. Thanks to swift emergency response and favourable outcomes, all 135 passengers and crew on board escaped unscathed. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the incident, its causes, and what’s expected next.
The Flight in Focus
Air India flight AI 2744, an Airbus A320 (registration VT-TYA), was en route from Kochi to Mumbai when the incident occurred on Monday.
Heavy Rains and Slippery Conditions
Mumbai’s relentless monsoon downpour had significantly reduced visibility and left the runways slick. Such challenging weather is believed to have played a key role in what followed.
Landing on Runway 27
The aircraft was directed to land on Runway 27, the main and longer runway at the Mumbai airport. The touchdown appeared normal at first but soon turned alarming.
Skid and Loss of Alignment
During the deceleration phase, the aircraft drifted off the runway’s centreline — a critical moment where control should ideally remain tight. Within seconds, the plane had veered about 16 to 17 metres off the tarmac.
Unexpected Excursion
Instead of halting safely, the plane slid onto an adjacent unpaved area, churning up soft ground before coming to a stop on a taxiway nearby. Fortunately, no further damage occurred during this movement.
Tyre and Engine Impact
Three of the aircraft’s tyres burst in the process, and one engine cowling sustained damage. Despite this, the aircraft managed to taxi under its own power to a parking bay.
Runway Temporarily Shut Down
Following the mishap, Runway 27 was closed to allow inspection and clearing. Minor surface damage was found, likely from tyre debris and the skid itself.
Emergency Response Was Prompt
Airport emergency systems were activated immediately. Fire crews, rescue teams, and technical staff reached the scene within minutes. Meanwhile, the airport diverted all operations to Runway 14/32 to keep traffic moving.
No Injuries, But a Close Call
Thankfully, there were no injuries reported among passengers or crew. While this incident ended safely, it underlines the risks of landing during extreme weather, especially during the monsoon season.
What Happens Next?
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Air India are now conducting a detailed investigation. The final report will determine whether weather, pilot error, or mechanical issues were primarily to blame.
This incident highlights the importance of robust emergency protocols and quick response times in aviation. While all lives were spared and damages contained, it serves as a sharp reminder of the challenges Indian airports face during the monsoon and the need for continued vigilance.
The Flight in Focus
Air India flight AI 2744, an Airbus A320 (registration VT-TYA), was en route from Kochi to Mumbai when the incident occurred on Monday.
Heavy Rains and Slippery Conditions
Mumbai’s relentless monsoon downpour had significantly reduced visibility and left the runways slick. Such challenging weather is believed to have played a key role in what followed.
Landing on Runway 27
The aircraft was directed to land on Runway 27, the main and longer runway at the Mumbai airport. The touchdown appeared normal at first but soon turned alarming.
Skid and Loss of Alignment
During the deceleration phase, the aircraft drifted off the runway’s centreline — a critical moment where control should ideally remain tight. Within seconds, the plane had veered about 16 to 17 metres off the tarmac.
Unexpected Excursion
Instead of halting safely, the plane slid onto an adjacent unpaved area, churning up soft ground before coming to a stop on a taxiway nearby. Fortunately, no further damage occurred during this movement.
Tyre and Engine Impact
Three of the aircraft’s tyres burst in the process, and one engine cowling sustained damage. Despite this, the aircraft managed to taxi under its own power to a parking bay.
Runway Temporarily Shut Down
Following the mishap, Runway 27 was closed to allow inspection and clearing. Minor surface damage was found, likely from tyre debris and the skid itself.
Emergency Response Was Prompt
Airport emergency systems were activated immediately. Fire crews, rescue teams, and technical staff reached the scene within minutes. Meanwhile, the airport diverted all operations to Runway 14/32 to keep traffic moving.
No Injuries, But a Close Call
Thankfully, there were no injuries reported among passengers or crew. While this incident ended safely, it underlines the risks of landing during extreme weather, especially during the monsoon season.
What Happens Next?
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Air India are now conducting a detailed investigation. The final report will determine whether weather, pilot error, or mechanical issues were primarily to blame.
This incident highlights the importance of robust emergency protocols and quick response times in aviation. While all lives were spared and damages contained, it serves as a sharp reminder of the challenges Indian airports face during the monsoon and the need for continued vigilance.
Next Story