Mumbai, July 21 — A major mishap was narrowly averted at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on Monday when Air India Flight AI 2744, flying from Kochi to Mumbai, skidded off the runway during landing amid heavy rain. The aircraft involved was an Airbus A320, registration VT-TYA.
The incident occurred during a period of intense rainfall in Mumbai, which led to slippery runway conditions. As the aircraft approached for landing, it lost traction and veered slightly off the runway. Though the aircraft sustained minor damage, all passengers and crew members onboard were reported safe and unharmed.
Eyewitnesses inside the plane described a moment of panic as the aircraft jolted on landing. Thanks to the swift response by the flight crew and airport authorities, passengers were safely evacuated and transported to the terminal via airport shuttle services.
Air India released an official statement following the incident, stating:
"Flight AI 2744 operating from Kochi to Mumbai encountered a runway excursion during landing due to adverse weather conditions. All passengers and crew are safe. The aircraft is being inspected, and the DGCA has been notified. We regret the inconvenience caused."
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an investigation into the matter. Airport officials are assessing the extent of damage to the aircraft and checking the runway for safety. Meanwhile, weather warnings remain in effect, with the India Meteorological Department forecasting more heavy rain in the region over the next 48 hours.
This incident has raised fresh concerns about runway safety and airport preparedness during the monsoon season. On social media, hashtags such as #AirIndia, #MumbaiAirport, and #KochiToMumbai began trending, with images and videos from passengers quickly going viral.
Fortunately, due to timely action and pilot expertise, what could have been a major disaster was avoided. All flight operations were resumed after brief delays.
