Preliminary Report Reveals Details of Air India Mumbai Runway Incident

Post by : Meena Rani

On July 21, 2025, an Air India Airbus A320neo, operating flight AI 2744 from Kochi to Mumbai, experienced a serious runway incident while landing at Mumbai International Airport. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has released a preliminary report, providing detailed insights into what happened. Luckily, none of the 182 passengers and crew onboard were injured during the incident.

Incident Overview

The aircraft was completing its final approach to Runway 27 when it touched down slightly off the intended centerline. Specifically, the right-hand main wheels and the nose wheel moved onto a grassy area beside the runway. Despite this, the aircraft continued rolling along the grass until it reached the runway intersection, where it was safely realigned with the centerline. After this, the plane was able to taxi under its own power to its designated parking bay, bay K5L, where it came to a full stop without further incident.

The preliminary report emphasizes that while the excursion was serious, the pilots managed to maintain control of the aircraft throughout the landing.

Damage to Aircraft and Runway

The investigation noted visible damage to the aircraft:

• Main Wheels: Wheels numbered 2, 3, and 4 were deflated, showing cuts and marks likely caused during the excursion on the grassy area.

• Engine: The cowl of the second engine sustained damage, requiring inspection and repair.

• Runway Infrastructure: Several runway lights and signs were damaged due to the aircraft veering off the paved surface.

These damages highlight the physical impact of the incident, although thankfully, no one on board was harmed.

Weather Conditions at the Time

The incident occurred during heavy rainfall. Wet runway conditions can reduce friction between tires and the runway surface, making it more challenging for aircraft to maintain a straight landing path. The preliminary report indicates that the weather may have been a contributing factor to the aircraft skidding off the runway.

Investigation Status

The AAIB has opened a full investigation to determine the exact causes of the incident. The preliminary report does not assign blame but outlines the sequence of events and the damage observed. The investigation will further examine all contributing factors, including:

• Weather conditions

• Pilot response and aircraft handling

• Runway surface and drainage

• Mechanical performance of the aircraft

The goal of the investigation is to provide recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Airline Response

Air India has grounded the affected aircraft for a thorough inspection and necessary repairs. The airline has confirmed its full cooperation with the AAIB and emphasized its commitment to passenger safety.

Air India also stated that all other flights are operating normally and that it continuously reviews safety protocols to prevent any future runway incidents.

• The aircraft experienced a runway excursion but remained under control.

• No passengers or crew were injured.

• Significant damage occurred to the wheels, engine, and runway infrastructure.

• Wet weather likely contributed to the event.

• The AAIB’s ongoing investigation aims to identify causes and improve safety.

This incident serves as an important reminder of the challenges of landing aircraft under adverse weather conditions. It also highlights the critical role of pilot training, airport infrastructure, and strict safety protocols in ensuring aviation safety.

Air India, Mumbai Airport, Runway Excursion, AAIB, Airbus A320