Image Source: Telegraph India
An Air India Express Boeing 737 flight carrying approximately 150 passengers from Bengaluru encountered a nerve-wracking landing situation at Gwalior Airport on Saturday. The aircraft made a safe touchdown on its second attempt after facing significant challenges during the initial landing, causing panic and distress among passengers.
Key Highlights of the Incident
The flight was scheduled to land at Gwalior around 4 pm but during the first landing attempt, the aircraft lost balance and tilted to one side as it touched the runway.
Passengers on board reported violent shaking of the plane during the initial descent, triggering fear and chaos inside the cabin.
The pilot promptly aborted the landing by executing a go-around maneuver — a procedure used for safety when landing conditions are unfavorable.
During the second approach, the aircraft’s speed was notably high, making a smooth landing difficult, but the pilot managed to safely land the plane without incident.
Passengers reacted with panic, screaming and expressing fear during this tense episode, describing it as a narrowly averted accident.
After successfully landing, the aircraft was thoroughly inspected by technical personnel, and no faults were found, and it subsequently operated as scheduled.
Air India Express officials emphasized that pilots and crew are rigorously trained to perform go-around procedures as a precaution when required.
Some passengers voiced concerns to airport authorities regarding the handling of the situation and initially perceived unresponsiveness by officials.
The airport director confirmed that aborted first landings are not uncommon and considered the incident managed within standard operational safety protocols.
Passenger Experiences and Responses
Several passengers shared their harrowing experiences and relief following the incident:
Front-seat passenger KM Ojha described it as a perilous landing and credited divine grace for their safe survival.
Ashutosh Kulshreshtha recounted the violent shaking felt when the plane first landed, prompting screams and alarm.
Some passengers contemplated canceling further flight plans due to shaken confidence and demanded accountability.
Safety and Operational Protocols
Air India Express reiterated its commitment to safety, stating that the crew’s decision to abort the first landing was a standard safety measure. The executed go-around and subsequent smooth touchdown highlighted their training and preparedness in emergency situations.
Regular technical checks post-landing reaffirmed the aircraft’s fitness for continued operations, alleviating concerns about mechanical faults.
Context in Aviation Safety
Go-around maneuvers are fundamental safety features taught in pilot training, used worldwide to prevent accidents. While unsettling for passengers, such decisions prioritize safety when runway, weather, or aircraft conditions are not ideal.
The aviation industry continues to emphasize transparent communication and passenger support during such events to alleviate anxieties.
Conclusion
The incident underscores the demanding nature of piloting and airport operations, with human skill and protocol adherence preventing disaster. Though tense moments were experienced by all onboard, the safe outcome reaffirms trust in Air India Express’s commitment to passenger safety.
Sources: Republic World, Free Press Journal, Times of India
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