An Air India flight from Delhi to Vienna faced a serious incident shortly after takeoff. The flight, AI-187, dropped nearly 900 feet in altitude, alarming passengers and crew on board. This event happened on June 14, just days after a tragic crash involving another Air India flight that killed around 270 people. The incident has raised significant safety concerns regarding Air India’s operations.
The Boeing 777 flight took off from Indira Gandhi International Airport at 2:56 am. Shortly after, it experienced a sudden loss of altitude. The aircraft triggered multiple warnings, including stall alerts and “Don’t sink” messages from the ground proximity warning system. Despite the situation, the pilots managed to regain control and continued towards Vienna.
Air India confirmed that the pilots acted quickly to stabilize the aircraft despite challenging weather conditions. A spokesperson for the airline stated, “Upon receiving the pilot’s report, the matter was disclosed to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) as per regulations. Following data analysis from the flight recorders, a detailed investigation was launched. The pilots have been off-rostered pending the outcome of the probe.”
The DGCA is now investigating the incident thoroughly. They have summoned Air India’s Head of Safety for a detailed explanation. This investigation is crucial, especially as it comes just 38 hours after the deadly crash of flight AI-171, which raised serious concerns about the airline’s safety measures.
A recent DGCA safety audit revealed ongoing issues with Air India’s aircraft maintenance and defect rectification procedures. The regulator is examining whether the altitude drop during the flight to Vienna was caused by weather, technical faults, or human error. Depending on the findings, stricter inspections and changes to Air India’s operational procedures may be necessary.
In addition to the investigation, the DGCA has initiated an audit at Air India’s headquarters in Gurugram. This audit focuses on critical areas, including flight operations and crew scheduling. The aim is to ensure that all safety protocols are followed and that the airline maintains high operational standards.
Passengers on the flight have expressed their concerns over the incident. Many are worried about the safety of future flights with Air India, especially after the recent crash that shocked the nation. The airline must address these fears and reassure its passengers about their safety.
The DGCA’s comprehensive investigation and audit of Air India are vital steps to restoring public confidence in the airline. As the situation unfolds, both the airline and regulatory authorities will need to work together to ensure that safety remains the top priority in the aviation sector.
In conclusion, the sudden altitude drop of Air India flight AI-187 raises serious questions about safety practices within the airline. The ongoing investigations aim to uncover the causes and prevent such incidents from happening in the future. With the recent crash still fresh in everyone’s mind, Air India faces increased scrutiny from both regulators and the public. It is essential for the airline to take immediate action to enhance its safety protocols and regain the trust of its passengers.
Leave a Reply