Air India Aircraft Suffers Engine Damage in Collision with Baggage Container at New Delhi Airport
In a recent incident at New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, an Air India A350 wide-body airliner collided with a baggage container while taxiing, causing damage to the engine. This was reported by the Press Trust of India (PTI), stating that the incident occurred during poor visibility due to heavy fog.
According to the PTI, the A350 was preparing to fly from New Delhi to New York when it collided with the baggage container, which had accidentally ended up in its path. As a result of the collision, debris from the container was sucked into the operating right engine, rendering the aircraft unairworthy and in need of repairs.
Following the incident, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the collision. Air India, which operates six A350 aircraft, has already sent one for repairs prior to this incident. The airline has also warned of potential disruptions on some long-haul routes that are operated by the A350.
The damaged A350 aircraft has been grounded for repairs, causing inconvenience to passengers and disruptions to the airline’s operations. However, Air India has assured that they are working towards resolving the issue and minimizing any further disruptions.
The A350 is a popular choice for long-haul flights, known for its fuel efficiency and spacious interior. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety precautions and proper procedures, especially during times of poor visibility.
This is not the first time Air India has faced such an incident. In 2019, a similar incident occurred at the same airport when an A320neo aircraft suffered engine damage after colliding with a ground handling vehicle. The incident was also attributed to poor visibility caused by heavy fog.
Air India has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. However, the airline has assured that they are fully cooperating with the authorities and taking necessary measures to ensure the safety of their passengers and crew.
In conclusion, the A350 aircraft’s collision with a baggage container at New Delhi Airport highlights the potential risks and challenges faced by airlines during times of poor visibility. The incident serves as a reminder for all airlines to prioritize safety and adhere to strict protocols to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.