DGCA Launches Investigation into SpiceJet and Akasa Air Ground Collision
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New Delhi, April 17 (NationPress) The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an inquiry into a ground incident that occurred at the New Delhi International Airport, involving an aircraft from SpiceJet and another from Akasa Air.
The incident transpired at IGI Airport, New Delhi, on Thursday, where a SpiceJet B737-700 (SG-124, Leh–Delhi) and an Akasa Air B737 MAX 8 (QP-1406, Delhi–Hyderabad) were involved, near bay No. 106 at Terminal 1.
While taxiing, the right winglet of the SpiceJet plane collided with the left horizontal stabilizer of the Akasa aircraft.
Both planes incurred damage and have been taken out of service for inspection and repairs, as stated by the Civil Aviation Ministry.
According to preliminary information, the Akasa Air plane had just been pushed back from bay No. 104 and was getting ready for engine start.
“The SpiceJet aircraft, which was near bay No. 108, had received clearance from ATC to taxi to bay No. 106 after the pilot confirmed it was clear of the Akasa aircraft. During this maneuver, the SpiceJet plane turned without obtaining clearance from the wing walker, leading to the collision,” as indicated in an official statement.
Pending the outcome of the inquiry, the pilots of the SpiceJet aircraft and the relevant Air Traffic Control officer have been temporarily relieved of their duties.
“The Ministry of Civil Aviation is actively monitoring the situation and is committed to implementing all necessary measures to maintain safety standards and prevent similar incidents in the future,” the statement added.
The incident took place around 2:15 PM when the SpiceJet aircraft, arriving from Leh, was taxiing towards its assigned gate and struck the Akasa Air plane, which was preparing for its flight to Hyderabad.
Initial reports suggest that the Akasa aircraft was stationary when it was struck by another airline’s plane.
“The Akasa Air flight QP 1406 from Delhi to Hyderabad had to return to the bay on April 16. Preliminary details indicate that Akasa’s aircraft was not in motion when it was contacted by another airline’s plane,” stated an Akasa Air representative.
The airline confirmed that all passengers and crew were safely evacuated, and alternative arrangements are being made to ensure passengers reach Hyderabad as soon as possible.