A Kozhikode-bound Air India Express flight, carrying 160 passengers, made a precautionary landing at Cochin International Airport on Thursday morning after the crew detected damage to the aircraft’s tyres. The flight, known as Jeddah–Kozhikode (IX 398), was safely diverted to Kochi, according to airline officials.
An Air India Express spokesperson confirmed that the aircraft experienced a possible tyre-related issue during its journey. “The aircraft made a precautionary landing due to suspected damage to the aircraft’s tyre, likely caused by a foreign object on the runway at Jeddah airport,” the spokesperson stated.
During the incident, the airline assured that only the tyres were affected and there were no issues with the landing gear. It clarified further, saying, “It was not an emergency landing. The flight was diverted as a precautionary measure since Kozhikode’s Karipur airport is a tabletop airport,” highlighting the importance of safety protocols in aviation.
Upon landing safely in Kochi at approximately 9:07 AM, the airline reported that all passengers were unharmed. The airline took immediate action to connect guests to Kozhikode by road, acknowledging the inconvenience caused. The spokesperson reiterated, “Safety remains our highest priority.” These protocols demonstrate Air India Express’s commitment to passenger safety amid unforeseen circumstances.
Further affirming the situation, the Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) released a statement detailing the events leading to the precautionary landing. They confirmed they facilitated the safe arrival of the aircraft while activating all necessary emergency services in advance. A CIAL spokesperson noted, “There were no injuries to passengers or crew. Post-landing inspection confirmed that both right-side tyres had burst,” revealing the extent of the tyre failure.
Following the incident, CIAL took swift action to inspect the runway, ensuring it was cleared and returned to normal operational status. This response underlines the airport authority’s efficient handling of potential hazards, a crucial factor in maintaining overall air travel safety.
As investigations into the cause of the suspected tyre damage continue, Air India Express advocates for increased awareness about such issues. The airline maintains a commitment to safety, ensuring that passengers feel secure and informed throughout their travel experience.
This precautionary landing illustrates the airline’s dedication to passenger safety and the robust measures in place to respond adequately to technical issues. Such incidents often reinforce the importance of vigilance in aviation safety protocols, ultimately contributing to the well-being of all travelers.
