An Air India Express flight, carrying 160 passengers, made a precautionary landing at Cochin International Airport on Thursday after crew members detected suspected tyre damage. The flight, originally destined for Kozhikode, was diverted due to a concerning issue related to the aircraft’s tyres, as confirmed by airline officials.
The flight, identified as IX 398, departed from Jeddah before the crew noticed a potential tyre-related problem. An Air India Express spokesperson explained, “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 stressed that only the tyres were affected and assured there was no issue with the landing gear. They clarified that this was not classified as an emergency landing. Instead, the flight diverted as a precaution because Kozhikode’s Karipur airport has a complicated tabletop runway.
The aircraft landed safely in Kochi, with all passengers reported to be unharmed. The spokesperson noted, “All guests are being connected to Kozhikode by road. We regret the inconvenience caused and reiterate that safety remains our highest priority.”
Earlier in the day, Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) detailed their response to the situation. They indicated that they facilitated the safe landing of the aircraft at 9.07 am, after the flight’s diversion owing to a technical issue linked to the right main landing gear and tyre failure.
According to a representative from CIAL, “All emergency services were activated in advance, and there were no injuries to passengers or crew. Post-landing inspection confirmed that both right-side tyres had burst.” Following the arrival, CIAL stated they thoroughly inspected and cleared the runway for normal operations.
This incident highlights the ongoing commitment of Air India Express and CIAL to passenger safety, echoing their persistent efforts to maintain high standards in air travel. By promptly addressing the issue and safely diverting the flight, they showcased a strong focus on passenger welfare and operational integrity.
As air transport remains a vital lifeline for many, such precautionary measures reinforce the significance of vigilance in aviation safety protocols. With regular inspections and readiness to respond swiftly to potential threats, authorities aim to enhance the reliability of air travel for all.
