In a dramatic incident at Kolkata Airport, a Darbhanga-bound IndiGo aircraft collided with a stationary Air India Express flight, causing damage to the wingtips of both planes. The collision occurred as the IndiGo aircraft was taxiing and the Air India Express flight awaited clearance to enter the runway.
The collision raised alarms as the two aircraft came dangerously close to each other, prompting concerns for the safety of hundreds of passengers on board. The impact resulted in a part of the Air India Express aircraft’s wing falling onto the runway, while the IndiGo aircraft’s wing suffered denting.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken swift action, off-rostering both IndiGo A320 VT-ISS pilots and initiating a detailed investigation into the incident. A DGCA official stated, “We have ordered a detailed investigation into the matter and both the pilots of IndiGo airlines have been off-rostered. The ground staff will also be questioned during the investigation. Both the flights have been grounded for detailed inspection.”
The IndiGo aircraft involved in the collision had 135 passengers on board, including four infants. IndiGo promptly responded, stating, “A minor graze between a taxiing IndiGo aircraft and that of another carrier was reported from Kolkata Airport. The aircraft returned to the bay for inspection and necessary action, per protocol.” The airline ensured passenger safety and comfort by providing refreshments, arranging an alternative aircraft, and prioritizing safety protocols.
Similarly, Air India Express acknowledged the incident, stating, “The wingtip of a taxiing aircraft of another airline grazed one of our aircraft, which was stationary and awaiting clearance to enter the runway at Kolkata for a scheduled operation to Chennai.” The airline expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to passengers and confirmed coordination with regulators and airport authorities for further investigation.
The Kolkata airport’s incident report detailed the damage, stating, “At 11:10 am, received information from ATC that one aircraft IX 1886 (VT-TGG) report wingtip vortices hit. Observed wingtip vortices of aircraft IX 1886 are missing and wingtip vortices of aircraft 6E 6152 have dents.”
Sources By Agencies