Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 21: A tense moment unfolded at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) on Monday morning when an Air India flight from Kochi (AI 2744) experienced a runway excursion during landing. Fortunately, all passengers and crew disembarked safely, and no injuries were reported.

The incident occurred at 09:27 AM, with the aircraft veering off the primary runway amid heavy rain, according to official statements from both CSMIA and Air India.

“An incoming aircraft from Kochi experienced a runway excursion... CSMIA's emergency response teams were immediately activated. All passengers and crew are safe,” said a CSMIA spokesperson, adding that minor damages were sustained by Runway 09/27.

To maintain uninterrupted operations, secondary runway 14/32 was activated.

Air India confirmed the aircraft had safely taxied to the gate after touchdown, despite the runway incident.

“The aircraft has been grounded for checks, and the safety of passengers and crew remains our top priority,” the airline said.

Meanwhile, in an unrelated development, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu addressed Parliament on Monday regarding the Air India 171 crash in Ahmedabad last month. He assured that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and domain experts, is conducting an unbiased and transparent investigation into the June 12 tragedy, which claimed all lives on board except one survivor.

The final probe report into the Ahmedabad crash is still awaited, as officials continue to examine all technical and procedural aspects.

As for Monday’s runway incident in Mumbai, airport officials reiterated that passenger safety remains the highest priority, and operations have resumed smoothly on the alternate runway while investigations and repairs are underway.