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An Air India Airbus A320 from Kochi skidded off Mumbai’s runway during Monday’s landing in heavy rain. Three tyres burst, minor engine and runway damage reported. Full incident details, safety response, and provisional DGCA probe inside.
Air India A320 Skids Off Mumbai Runway in Heavy Rain — Three Tyres Burst, No Injuries
Flight Details and Incident Overview
On the morning of July 21, 2025, Air India flight AI 2744, an Airbus A320 registered VT‑TYA, operating from Kochi to Mumbai, encountered a dangerous runway excursion during landing at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA). Amid intense monsoon rainfall, the aircraft skidded slightly off Runway 09/27 shortly after touchdown. During the incident, three tyres burst, and there was minor damage to one engine and the runway surface.
Heavy Rain and Low Visibility
Mumbai experienced heavy rain at the time of landing, causing low visibility and waterlogged runway conditions. These factors likely led to hydroplaning or reduced braking efficiency as the aircraft decelerated.
Possible Contributing Factors
Investigators are focusing on:
- Reduced friction from standing water.
- High touchdown speed in wet conditions.
- Pilot braking decisions on saturated runways.
The DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) has launched a formal investigation to determine the root cause.
On‑Ground Response and Safety Measures
Emergency and firefighting teams were deployed immediately to secure the scene. The aircraft, though damaged, taxied safely to the terminal. All 141 passengers and crew disembarked without injury.
Airport officials confirmed minor runway damage; the primary runway was temporarily closed for inspection and repairs. In its place, Runway 14/32 was activated to ensure operational continuity and prevent major disruptions.
Statement from Air India & Airport Authorities
Air India released a statement noting:
“Flight AI 2744 … experienced heavy rain during landing, resulting in a runway excursion after touchdown. The aircraft taxied safely to the gate, and all passengers and crew members have disembarked. The aircraft has been grounded for checks. The safety of passengers and crew remains our top priority.”
CSMIA (Mumbai International Airport Limited) added:
“An incoming aircraft from Kochi experienced a runway excursion at CSMIA at 09:27 hours on 21 July 2025. CSMIA’s emergency response teams were immediately activated … Minor damages have been reported to the primary runway … All passengers and crew are safe.”
Technical Investigation Underway
DGCA officials have launched an inquiry to assess factors including runway conditions, the aircraft’s Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) analysis, and crew operation in severe weather. Experts will review whether:
- Runway drainage and friction measures meet safety requirements.
- Pilot actions aligned with wet‑weather standard operating procedures.
- Airport advisories adequately informed crews about runway surface conditions.
Runway excursions during Mumbai’s monsoon season are not unprecedented. The airport has witnessed similar incidents involving airlines like SpiceJet, GoAir, and IndiGo, highlighting long-standing challenges with slick runway conditions and rapidly changing weather.
Passenger Experience and Aftermath
Travelers described the landing as “a rough skid” followed by a sudden jolt. Yet, efficient emergency response and quick disembarkation helped maintain calm. Air India arranged alternative flight options for stranded passengers and issued refunds or rebooking assistance.
Mumbai airport operations resumed swiftly using the secondary runway. While some flights experienced minor delays, significant disruptions were avoided.
Looking Forward — Safety & Infrastructure Upgrades
Key lessons emerging from the incident include:
- Drainage enhancements on key runway zones.
- Regular friction testing during monsoon months.
- Enhanced pilot training for hydroslip scenarios.
- Real‑time runway condition updates to cockpit crews.
The DGCA inquiry will likely issue recommendations on airport SOPs, runway maintenance, and airline crew training protocols within the next few weeks. Both Air India and CSMIA have affirmed cooperation and a commitment to safety.
Air India’s A320 runway excursion in Mumbai on July 21, 2025, was a serious incident caused by heavy rain that led to three burst tyres and minor engine and runway damage. Thanks to robust emergency response and aviation protocols, all passengers and crew were safe. While no serious disruption occurred, the event highlights the importance of proactive monsoon‑period runway safety measures—a focus of the ongoing DGCA probe.
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