An Air India Express flight from Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) to Sharjah made an emergency landing shortly after takeoff due to a hydraulic failure, prompting an investigation by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The incident occurred on October 11, 2024, when the aircraft, carrying 141 passengers, experienced technical difficulties just minutes into its flight.
The flight, designated IX 167, took off from Trichy at approximately 5:30 PM. Shortly thereafter, the crew detected a hydraulic failure, which is critical for controlling various aircraft systems, including landing gear and brakes. In response to the malfunction, the pilots executed standard emergency procedures. They circled over Trichy for nearly two and a half hours to burn off fuel before safely landing back at Trichy International Airport at around 7:15 PM.
Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu confirmed that a full emergency was declared at 6:05 PM as a precautionary measure. He praised the swift response of the airport and emergency teams, which ensured a safe landing without injuries to any passengers or crew members.
Following the incident, the DGCA announced it would conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the root cause of the hydraulic failure. The regulatory body has emphasized its commitment to maintaining high safety standards in Indian aviation. Minister Naidu instructed Air India Express to provide all necessary assistance to affected passengers, including alternate travel arrangements.
Passengers aboard the flight reported feelings of anxiety during the extended period of circling over Trichy. Many expressed relief upon landing safely. One passenger described the experience as “nerve-wracking,” noting that while the crew remained calm and professional, the uncertainty was unsettling.
Air India Express has since issued an apology for the inconvenience caused and reassured passengers that their safety is the airline’s top priority. They are working closely with authorities to ensure that such incidents are thoroughly investigated and addressed.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding aircraft maintenance and operational safety in India. The DGCA has been under scrutiny in recent years due to various technical issues affecting domestic airlines. As air travel continues to grow in India, ensuring stringent oversight and adherence to safety protocols is paramount.
The DGCA’s investigation will likely examine not only this specific incident but also broader maintenance practices within Air India Express and potentially other carriers. The findings could lead to recommendations for improved safety measures across the industry.
The emergency landing of the Air India Express flight from Tiruchirappalli underscores the critical importance of aircraft maintenance and operational readiness in ensuring passenger safety. As investigations proceed, both Air India Express and regulatory authorities will need to address any identified shortcomings to restore public confidence in air travel safety in India.
