On December 5, 2024, an Air India flight from Goa to Hyderabad narrowly avoided a potentially disastrous situation when the pilots mistakenly attempted to take off from a taxiway instead of the designated runway at Goa's Manohar International Airport (GOX). This incident, involving flight AI2592 operated by an Airbus A320neo, has raised significant concerns about aviation safety and pilot training.
By Aditya M
The Incident
The flight, scheduled to depart from Goa at 3:47 AM UTC, began its takeoff roll on Taxiway A instead of Runway 10/28. The aircraft had accelerated to over 100 knots when the alert Air Traffic Controller (ATC) noticed the error and promptly instructed the pilots to abort the takeoff. The crew successfully rejected the takeoff and safely returned the aircraft to the terminal.
Immediate Response
The quick intervention by the ATC and the prompt response by the pilots prevented what could have been a catastrophic event. The aircraft, registered as VT-EXT, was carrying passengers and crew who were fortunately unharmed. Following the incident, the flight was canceled, and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of India launched an investigation into the matter.
Possible Causes
While the exact cause of the incident is still under investigation, several factors could have contributed to the pilots' confusion:
- New Airport Markings: The Manohar International Airport is relatively new, and the pilots might have been unfamiliar with its layout.
- Pilot Training: There is a possibility that the crew had not received adequate training specific to this airport.
- Human Error: Mistakes in navigation and situational awareness can occur, especially during the early hours of the morning when fatigue might be a factor.
Broader Implications
This incident is a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous training and familiarization for pilots, especially when operating in new or unfamiliar airports. It also highlights the critical role of ATC in ensuring the safety of air operations. The DGCA's investigation will likely lead to recommendations aimed at preventing such incidents in the future.
Conclusion
The attempted takeoff from a taxiway at Goa's Manohar International Airport by an Air India flight underscores the need for continuous vigilance and improvement in aviation safety protocols. While the quick actions of the ATC and the pilots averted a disaster, this incident serves as a valuable lesson for the aviation industry. Ensuring that pilots are well-trained and familiar with airport layouts, along with maintaining robust communication with ATC, is essential for the safety of all air travelers.
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