An Air India Express flight, originally headed for Sharjah, faced significant challenges shortly after take-off from Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) Airport, resulting in a safe emergency landing back at the airport. This incident unfolded on Friday, October 11, 2024, leaving both passengers and crew members relieved after the aircraft successfully landed following hydraulic failure.
The Boeing 737 was carrying 141 passengers when it took off at 5:45 PM. Just moments after departure, the aircraft's hydraulic system failed, complicting the function of the landing gear. Consequently, the crew, led by Captain Iqrom Rifadly Fahmi Zainal and Co-pilot Maitryee Shrikrishna Shitole, quickly assessed the situation and returned to Trichy.
To manage the potential risks associated with the landing gear, the flight circled over the city for nearly two hours. During this time, the pilot informed the Air Traffic Control (ATC) about the hydraulic failure, requesting permission for what is known as a belly landing—a landing without deployed landing gear. While circling, fuel was burned off to reduce weight for landing, which is standard procedure during emergencies like this.
With Trichy Airport on high alert, emergency protocols were activated. Over a dozen ambulances and fire service vehicles were strategically stationed on the tarmac. Foam was even sprayed on the runway as a precautionary measure against possible fire during the anticipated belly landing.
At 8:15 PM, the aircraft made its approach. Despite the initial plan to perform a belly landing, the landing gear deployed just before touchdown, allowing for a stable landing. Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu praised the flight crew and emergency personnel for their swift actions, underscoring their commitment to passenger safety.
“Air India Express flight AXB-613 has safely landed at Trichy Airport following a hydraulic failure. The crew and emergency ground teams acted swiftly to safeguard all 141 passengers. Safety remains our foremost priority,” he posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
Following the incident, Air India Express announced plans for passenger accommodations and alternative travel arrangements to continue their journeys to Sharjah. Meanwhile, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed they would conduct thorough investigations to determine the cause of the hydraulic failure.
“We are aware of media reports concerning the incident involving Air India Express flight operating on the Tiruchirappalli – Sharjah route. While no emergency was declared by the crew, the aircraft circled multiple times as a precautionary measure to reduce fuel and weight, before making the safe landing,” assured an Air India Express spokesperson.
Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, M.K. Stalin, also extended his acknowledgment of the successful landing. He instructed local authorities to remain on standby to provide any additional assistance required for passengers after the ordeal.
“I am heartened to learn of the safe landing of the Air India Express flight. Upon hearing about the landing gear issue, I coordinated immediate emergency measures, ensuring all necessary protocols were followed for passenger assistance and safety,” Stalin said shortly after the incident.
This incident serves as a reminder of both the potential hazards of air travel and the proficiency of airline crews and emergency response teams. The rapid response and communication among the crew, authorities, and emergency services contributed significantly to the successful outcome, embodying the importance of preparedness and situational awareness during aviation emergencies.
Air India Express will now focus on ensuring its passengers receive the necessary support post-landing, including arranging alternative flights and accommodations, as investigations continue to prevent similar occurrences.