In a serious weather-related incident, an Air India A320 aircraft (VT-TYA) operating flight AI-2744 from Kochi to Mumbai skidded off the runway while landing at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on Monday morning at 9:27 AM amid heavy rain.
The aircraft touched down on Runway 27 but failed to remain on the runway during deceleration. It veered off into an unpaved area, eventually coming to a halt on a taxiway. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and all passengers and crew safely disembarked after the aircraft taxied to a parking bay under its own power.
Three Tyres Burst, Engine Cowling Damaged
Sources confirmed that three tyres burst during the runway excursion, and the aircraft sustained minor damage to its engine cowling, likely due to contact with debris or soft terrain. Despite the skidding, the aircraft managed to regain control and taxi normally to the designated bay, averting a major crisis.
Main Runway Shut, Secondary Activated
Following the incident, Mumbai Airport authorities temporarily closed Runway 09/27, the airport’s main runway, due to minor surface damage. In a statement, a spokesperson said, “To ensure continuity of operations, Runway 14/32 has been activated. At CSMIA, safety remains our highest priority.”
DGCA Begins Probe into Incident
A team from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) reached the site and has launched a full investigation. Initial observations indicate that the aircraft veered around 16 to 17 meters off the runway shortly after touchdown, likely due to poor braking performance on the rain-soaked runway.
Air India Issues Statement
Air India confirmed the incident and assured that the aircraft has been grounded for checks. In an official statement, the airline said:
“Flight AI-2744 from Kochi to Mumbai on July 21 experienced heavy rain during landing, resulting in a runway excursion after touchdown. The aircraft taxied safely to the gate, and all passengers and crew have since disembarked. The aircraft has been grounded for checks. The safety of our passengers and crew is our top priority.”
Mumbai Airport’s Emergency Response in Action
Mumbai International Airport (CSMIA) confirmed the activation of its emergency response teams immediately after the incident. “An incoming aircraft from Kochi experienced a runway excursion at 09:27 hrs. All passengers and crew are safe. Minor damages have been reported to Runway 09/27,” the airport authority said.
