Two Planes on Same Runway at Mumbai Airport; DGCA De-registers Pilot

Two Planes on Same Runway at Mumbai Airport; DGCA De-registers Pilot

Mumbai, India: On Saturday, July 1, 2023, a near-disaster occurred at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) when two Air India Express planes came dangerously close to colliding on the same runway.

According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the incident involved a Boeing 737-800 (VT-AXL) and an Airbus A320-200 (VT-AVO). The A320 was preparing for takeoff while the 737 was vacating the runway after landing.

An investigation revealed that the A320 had crossed the hold-short line, a designated point on the runway where aircraft must wait for clearance before proceeding. The 737 was unaware of the A320’s incursion and continued moving, resulting in a close call between the two aircraft.

The DGCA has de-registered the pilot of the A320 for violating aviation safety regulations. The pilot’s license has been suspended for six months, pending further investigation.

“This incident is a serious breach of safety protocols,” said a DGCA spokesperson. “We will take strict action against those responsible to ensure the safety of our airspace.”

The near-collision highlights the need for improved communication and situational awareness in India’s busy airports. The DGCA has ordered audits of all airlines and airport operators to ensure compliance with safety standards.

The incident has not disrupted operations at CSMIA, but has raised concerns about the effectiveness of safety systems at Indian airports. The DGCA is working closely with airlines and airport authorities to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.