An Air India Express flight bound for Sharjah, carrying 144 passengers, made a safe emergency landing at Tiruchirappalli airport after encountering a hydraulic failure shortly after takeoff.
Flight AXB 613, which departed at 5:40 PM, reported the technical issue soon after becoming airborne.
Due to safety concerns, the aircraft was instructed to return, but before landing, it remained airborne for over two hours to burn fuel, ensuring a safer landing.
The flight finally touched down at 8:15 PM to the relief and applause of the passengers. Reports of potential landing gear problems emerged around 7:50 PM, prompting airport authorities to make emergency landing preparations. Videos of the landing showed the gear functioning properly, and no injuries were reported.
Tiruchirappalli Airport Director Gopalakrishnan confirmed that 20 ambulances and 18 fire engines were on standby.
Both Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) closely monitored the situation. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin held an emergency meeting with officials and coordinated safety measures, including the deployment of fire engines, ambulances, and medical teams.
Chief Minister Stalin later expressed relief, commending the captain and crew for their professionalism in handling the situation and ensuring a safe landing.