Runway Proximity Incident in Mumbai: Air India and IndiGo A320 Aircraft
The IndiGo flight (in red circle) landed on the runway in Mumbai airport while the Air India flight (in red circle) was still taking off. (Source: @karanbhanushaliii on X)
On June 8th, 2024, Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) witnessed a significant runway proximity incident involving two Airbus A320 aircraft at one of India's busiest airports.
Incident Overview
The two aircraft involved were an Air India Airbus A320, registration VT-RTS, operating flight AI657, and an IndiGo Airbus A320, registration VT-ISV, operating flight 6E5053. The incident occurred on Runway 27R, a critical runway at BOM Airport.
At approximately 00:45 UTC, Air India flight AI657 began its take-off roll. Concurrently, the IndiGo flight 6E5053 was making its final approach. By 00:45 UTC, the IndiGo A320 had entered the runway area while the Air India aircraft was accelerating past 90 knots ground speed.
A Close Call
The gravity of the situation became evident as the two aircraft came perilously close. Footage of the incident reveals that the IndiGo A320 touched down mere seconds after the Air India A320 lifted off. This scenario presented a severe dilemma for both pilots: whether to proceed with their landing or take-off maneuvers, execute a go-around, or abort the take-off, respectively. Each option was fraught with risks, given the minimal safe margins available.
Immediate Response
In response to the incident, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India, acted swiftly. An Air Traffic Controller (ATC) officer from Mumbai airport was de-rostered pending an investigation. This action underscores the seriousness with which the DGCA treats such proximity incidents and highlights the importance of air traffic control in ensuring the safety of aircraft operations.
Analysis and Implications
Runway incursions and proximity incidents are among the most hazardous events in aviation. If not managed properly, they can lead to catastrophic outcomes. The incident at Mumbai airport is a stark reminder of the need for continuous vigilance, rigorous training, and adherence to protocols by all stakeholders involved in aviation operations.
This incident will likely lead to a thorough review of ATC procedures at Mumbai airport and potentially across other busy airports in India. It also serves as a critical learning point for pilots and air traffic controllers, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, situational awareness, and the ability to make split-second decisions under pressure.
