Dubai-bound Air India Express flight with 178 onboard makes emergency landing
Aircraft cleared to fly after inspections, successfully completes its route
A Dubai-bound Air India Express flight, IX345, faced an in-flight emergency on Friday morning, leading to a swift return and emergency landing at Calicut International Airport.
The Boeing 737-800, scheduled to leave at 8:15AM and arrive in Dubai by 11:05AM, encountered landing gear issues soon after departure.
The malfunction, later identified as a hydraulic failure preventing gear deployment, prompted the flight crew to act swiftly. Emergency services were immediately placed on standby at Karipur to ensure safety during the aircraft’s return.
Robust response
As the flight circled to burn excess fuel for a safer landing, airport authorities coordinated a robust response. Ground crews, firefighters, and rescue teams were strategically positioned around the runway. With precision handling, the pilot executed a flawless emergency landing.
“All passengers and crew onboard are safe,” confirmed an Air India Express spokesperson. The passengers, numbering 178, waited in the terminal as technical teams assessed and resolved the issue.
Investigations and repairs
Technical experts launched an inquiry into the cause of the hydraulic failure. After thorough inspections and repairs, the aircraft was deemed fit for its journey. Though passengers experienced delays of over two hours, the flight successfully completed its route to Dubai.
This incident is the latest in a series of technical challenges faced by Air India Express. Last month, another flight to Bahrain was grounded after tyre fragments were discovered on the runway.