Did an IndiGo aircraft's tail touch the runway at Mumbai Airport?
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Synopsis
On August 16, 2025, an IndiGo Airbus A321 faced a challenging situation as its tail touched the runway during a low-altitude go-around in Mumbai. The airline prioritizes safety and is committed to thorough inspections before the aircraft returns to service. Explore the implications of this incident and the DGCA's scrutiny of their pilot training practices.
Key Takeaways
- IndiGo Airbus A321's tail touched the runway during a go-around due to bad weather.
- The airline is prioritizing safety and will conduct thorough checks before resuming operations.
- The DGCA issued a notice regarding the use of unqualified simulators for pilot training.
- Safety protocols are being emphasized in response to the incident.
- Proper simulator qualifications are crucial for safe pilot training at critical airports.
Mumbai, Aug 16 (NationPress) An IndiGo Airbus A321's tail made contact with the runway due to adverse weather while preparing for a low-altitude go-around maneuver in Mumbai on Saturday, as reported by the airline.
In challenging conditions, pilots often choose a go-around rather than attempting a landing.
"On August 16, 2025, the tail of an IndiGo Airbus A321 touched the runway during a low-altitude go-around caused by unfavorable weather in Mumbai. Subsequently, the aircraft performed another approach and landed safely," stated a spokesperson for IndiGo.
The airline confirmed its commitment to adhere to all protocols before the aircraft resumes operations.
In accordance with standard procedures, the aircraft will undergo essential inspections and repairs, along with obtaining regulatory clearance before it is deemed fit for service, the spokesperson added.
"At IndiGo, the safety of our passengers, crew, and aircraft is our highest priority. We are taking all necessary steps to mitigate any potential impact on our operations resulting from this event," the spokesperson remarked.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had issued a show-cause notice to IndiGo the previous week for training 1,700 pilots to operate at three significant airports with demanding runway conditions, which require specialized aircraft handling to ensure safe landings and takeoffs using "non-qualified simulators."
The notice indicated that IndiGo utilized unqualified simulators for training flight commanders and first officers at Category C (Critical) airfields.
Upon reviewing IndiGo's simulator training records, it was found that several Full Flight Simulators employed for training, testing, or inspecting airfields like Kozhikode, Leh, and Kathmandu were not approved for the specific airport models as mandated by the Civil Aviation Rules (CAR), according to the DGCA.
It was noted that IndiGo has breached CAR provisions by failing to ensure that training for Class III (critical) airports is conducted using appropriately qualified simulators, as highlighted in the notice.
Point of View
I believe that the safety and training practices of airlines like IndiGo must be strictly scrutinized to ensure the highest standards are maintained. The incident in Mumbai not only raises questions about pilot training but also emphasizes the importance of adhering to aviation regulations. It is crucial for the airline industry to prioritize the safety of passengers and crews alike.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the tail of the IndiGo aircraft to touch the runway?
The tail of the IndiGo aircraft touched the runway due to adverse weather conditions while executing a low-altitude go-around maneuver.
What actions will IndiGo take following this incident?
IndiGo will conduct necessary checks, repairs, and obtain regulatory clearance before resuming operations.
What is the DGCA's involvement regarding IndiGo's training practices?
The DGCA issued a show-cause notice to IndiGo for using unqualified simulators to train pilots for critical airfields.
How does IndiGo prioritize safety after such incidents?
IndiGo emphasizes the safety of passengers and crew as its top priority and is committed to minimizing operational impacts due to incidents.
What is the significance of using qualified simulators in pilot training?
Using qualified simulators for training is essential to ensure that pilots are adequately prepared to handle specific airport conditions safely.
