Airline News: AAIB Blames Air India Express Crew for Goa Runway Incursion
Airline News
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has said that a mistake by the Air India Express flight crew was the probable cause of a runway incursion at Goa’s Dabolim airport in April this year. The incident happened while a Navy fighter jet was taking off.
The incident took place on the morning of April 3. It involved an Air India Express Boeing 737-8 aircraft that was due to operate flight AXB 1109 from Dabolim to Delhi. At the same time, a single-pilot Navy fighter jet was taking off from the airport.
There were 171 people on board the Air India Express flight. Fortunately, no one was injured.
A runway incursion happens when an aircraft, vehicle or person enters a runway without permission or at the wrong time. It is considered a serious safety risk because it can lead to a collision with another plane that is taking off or landing. Airports and air traffic controllers follow strict rules to prevent such events.
The instructions given on the radio were not understood or followed correctly, and the aircraft moved in a way that led to the runway incursion while the Navy jet was taking off.
The also looked at the role of air traffic control. The AAIB pointed out the need for better communication procedures among air traffic controllers. Its recommendations include counselling for the flight crew and better training for the personnel involved in the incident.
Dabolim airport is a shared airport. It handles both civilian flights and Navy aircraft, so clear and correct communication is very important. Even a small misunderstanding can put many lives at risk.
Ajeet Yadav is an aviation enthusiast covering airline news, airports, aircraft, and industry developments through well-researched and reliable reporting.
