Kolkata: In an incident at Kolkata Airport on Wednesday, two aircraft narrowly avoided a collision on the runway, averting potential disaster for hundreds of passengers on board. The incident involved an IndiGo aircraft bound for Darbhanga, which collided with a stationary Air India Express flight awaiting clearance to enter the runway.
As a result of the impact, a portion of the Air India Express aircraft’s wing fell onto the runway, while the wing of the IndiGo aircraft sustained significant damage.
In response to the incident, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken swift action. Both pilots of the IndiGo A320 VT-ISS have been off-rostered, and a thorough investigation has been ordered.
DGCA in a statement said, “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, which had 135 passengers onboard, including four infants, was impacted by the incident. The airline issued a statement acknowledging the incident and stated that all necessary protocols were followed. They also reported that the affected flight, 6E 6152 from Kolkata to Darbhanga, has been delayed as a result. However, passengers were provided with refreshments, and alternative arrangements were made for their travel.
Air India Express also addressed the incident, expressing regret for the inconvenience caused to passengers.
“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 aircraft has since returned to the bay and further investigation is underway, for which we are coordinating with the regulator and airport authorities. We apologise for the inconvenience caused to guests due to external circumstances.”
