An Air India flight en route to Delhi collided with a tug truck while taxiing towards the runway at Pune Airport yesterday, with approximately 180 passengers onboard.
“The aircraft, carrying around 180 passengers, suffered damage to its nose and a tyre near the landing gear. Despite the collision, all passengers and crew on board are reported to be safe,” an airport official informed ANI.
Emergency procedures were promptly activated to ensure everyone’s safety.
Airport officials confirmed the incident, stating, “the passengers were immediately deplaned and arrangements were made for an alternative flight to Delhi.”
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the collision. Initial reports indicate that the tug truck, which is used to maneuver aircraft on the ground, struck the plane during the taxiing process. The DGCA’s investigation will focus on operational protocols and any potential lapses that contributed to the incident.
While the affected aircraft was taken out of service for a brief period for detailed inspection and repairs, airport operations continued without significant disruption, and the aircraft is now ready for operations.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.