The Unexpected Contact
On February 3rd, Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport became the scene of an uncommon aviation event. Air India flight AI2732, preparing
for its journey to Coimbatore, was stationary on the taxiway when its wingtip made contact with another aircraft. Simultaneously, IndiGo flight 6E 791, having just completed its landing from Hyderabad, was also maneuvering on the taxiway when its wingtip brushed against the stationary Air India plane. This rare mid-taxiway collision, though minor in impact, immediately halted both flights, prioritizing passenger safety and aircraft integrity above all else.
Immediate Aftermath and Safety
Following the incident, the primary concern was the safety of all individuals onboard. In both instances, passengers were safely deplaned from their respective aircraft without any reported injuries. Air India promptly addressed the situation for its flight AI2732 by arranging alternative flights to ensure passengers reached Coimbatore as soon as possible, demonstrating their commitment to passenger service. The aircraft itself, having sustained minor damage to its wingtip, was grounded for comprehensive technical checks as a precautionary measure to guarantee its airworthiness. Similarly, the IndiGo aircraft, 6E 791, was taken for necessary maintenance inspections. Both airlines adhered strictly to safety protocols, immediately notifying the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) about the ground collision.
Regulatory Response and Investigation
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) was promptly informed of the ground incident involving the two A320 aircraft at Mumbai Airport. As per standard procedure, DGCA officials arrived at the scene to conduct their own assessments. Both aircraft were returned to their respective bays for thorough inspection. The incident has triggered a formal investigation by the regulatory authorities to ascertain the exact cause of the taxiway collision. While the exact sequence of movements from C1 to M4 for Air India and the arrival path for IndiGo are being reviewed, the DGCA's involvement underscores the seriousness with which such occurrences are treated within the aviation sector. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
Airport Operations and Pressures
Despite the rare occurrence of this taxiway clash, Mumbai Airport's overall operations remained unaffected and continued to run normally. This incident, however, brings to the forefront the growing pressures on ground traffic management at one of India's busiest air travel hubs. As air travel continues its upward trajectory, such close encounters, even if minor, highlight the constant need for vigilance and efficient coordination among airlines and airport authorities to maintain the highest standards of safety on the ground, especially in high-traffic environments.
