Air India: An Express aircraft headed for Kozhikode makes an emergency landing in Kochi

Air India : Express aircraft carrying around 160 people avoided a serious aviation accident Thursday when it had a mechanical issue mid-flight and had to make an emergency landing in Kochi, Kerala.

The aircraft, AIE 398, was headed for Kozhikode from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

While flying, the pilot noticed problems with the landing gear. The pilot moved quickly to request authorization for an emergency landing and urgent diversion at Cochin International Airport.

After receiving the distress call, airport officials promptly initiated full emergency procedures.

As a precaution, security guards, medical professionals, and fire and rescue teams were stationed along the runway when the plane made a safe landing at around 9.07 a.m.

A thorough examination of the aircraft after the landing showed that two of its tires had burst, confirming the severity of the issue and highlighting the flight crew’s prompt decision to divert to Kochi.

Officials from Cochin International Airports Limited (CIAL) made sure that passengers were securely guided to the terminal by coordinating the emergency response and post-landing protocols.

According to airport sources, every emergency system was in working order.

Since then, all travelers have been housed at the airport lounge while plans are being made for their further travel.

Officials from Air India Express said that plans are in motion to either provide appropriate ground transportation or launch a backup aircraft to Kozhikode as soon as possible.

The airline has promised that customers would be driven to Kozhikode, which is around a seven-hour journey from Kochi, in the event that flights are delayed or cancelled. While they wait for further information, airline officials are also organizing refreshments and support for travelers.

The incident once again demonstrated how crucial it is for flight crews to make quick decisions and for airport emergency systems to be prepared in order to prevent what might have been a catastrophic tragedy.