On a recent morning, an Air India Express flight headed to Kochi had to make an emergency landing soon after departing from Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru.
Engine Fire Forces Emergency Landing
This drastic measure was necessary due to flames being observed in the aircraft's right engine shortly after takeoff at 10:30 a.m. The plane was carrying 150 passengers and crew members.
Eyewitnesses and ground service reports indicated that the flames were visible from the right engine shortly after the aircraft ascended. The flight crew, prioritizing safety, decided to return to Bengaluru immediately. Ground services at the airport confirmed the engine fire upon landing, leading to a swift evacuation of the aircraft. Fortunately, all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated, with no injuries reported.
All passengers and crew evacuated without injuries
An Air India Express spokesperson acknowledged the inconvenience caused by this incident and reassured passengers that the airline was making alternative travel arrangements to ensure everyone reached their destination. They also stated that a thorough investigation would be conducted in collaboration with aviation regulators to determine the cause of the engine fire.
In the interim, passengers were escorted to a safe area within the airport terminal. There, they received refreshments and continuous updates about their travel plans. The airline is arranging alternative flights and accommodations to minimize the disruption caused by this emergency.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been informed about the incident and will be conducting a detailed investigation. Initial evaluations suggest that the rapid and coordinated response of the flight crew and airport emergency services played a crucial role in averting a potentially more severe situation.
This incident highlights the significance of stringent maintenance protocols and the effectiveness of emergency procedures. Air India Express emphasized that passenger safety remains their highest priority and assured that all necessary measures would be taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As the investigation progresses, Air India Express has committed to fully cooperating with the authorities to uncover the exact cause of the engine malfunction. They have pledged to keep the public informed with updates as more details become available. This proactive stance aims to maintain transparency and reassure passengers of their commitment to safety and reliability.
While the emergency landing caused a significant disruption, the efficient response from the flight crew and ground services ensured the safety of everyone on board. The investigation by the DGCA will provide further insights into the incident, helping to enhance safety protocols and prevent future incidents. Passengers have been taken care of with alternative travel arrangements and continuous communication, reflecting the airline's dedication to passenger welfare amidst unexpected challenges.
