Pilot And Co-Pilot Lead Safe Landing Of Air India Express Flight

In a remarkable incident involving Air India Express Flight AI613 Pilot Iqrom Rifadly Fahmi Zainal and Co-Pilot Maitryee Shrikrishna Shitole showcased exceptional skill and composure during a technical crisis. The aircraft, operating from Trichy to Sharjah, faced a significant hydraulic issue shortly after takeoff, leading to a tense situation that required the crew to circle for nearly two hours before safely landing back at Tiruchirappalli Airport.

The Boeing 737, with 141 passengers on board, departed Trichy Airport at 5:45 PM. Soon after takeoff, the aircraft encountered a hydraulic failure, prompting the pilots to burn off fuel and prepare for an emergency landing. As the aircraft circled over Trichy, passengers experienced a mix of anxiety and uncertainty, while the flight crew kept them informed throughout the ordeal.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed the incident, stating, "The Air India Express Flight AI613 from Tiruchirappalli to Sharjah has landed safely at Tiruchirappalli airport. The DGCA was monitoring the situation closely."

After nearly two hours of circling the skies, Pilot Iqrom Rifadly Fahmi Zainal and Co-Pilot Maitryee Shrikrishna Shitole successfully landed Flight AI613 back at Trichy Airport at 8:15 PM, allowing passengers to disembark safely. The presence of emergency services, including ambulances and fire tenders, ensured that safety measures were in place throughout the incident.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed his relief on Friday after the Air India Express flight from Tiruchirappalli to Sharjah landed safely at Tiruchirappalli Airport despite experiencing landing gear issues.

Upon hearing the news of the flight's safe landing, the Chief Minister promptly convened an emergency meeting with officials via phone, directing them to implement all necessary safety measures.

"The Air India Express Flight IX 613 from Tiruchirappalli to Sharjah has landed safely at Tiruchirappalli airport. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) was monitoring the situation closely. The landing gear was opening, and the flight landed without incident. The airport was placed on alert mode," stated the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Tamil Nadu Governor N. Ravi also expressed gratitude to the captain and co-pilot for their skillful handling of the situation. "Many thanks to the Captain and Co-Pilot for the safe landing of flight IX 613 from Tiruchirappalli to Sharjah after the landing gear glitch. The courage and calm professionalism of the cockpit and cabin crew truly shone during this trying and tense moment. Heartfelt appreciation goes out to everyone involved, including emergency services, for ensuring the safety of all on board. Wishing everyone smooth travels ahead!" he stated.

CM Stalin further directed the District Collector to ensure the continued safety of all passengers and provide additional assistance. He praised the captain and crew for their successful landing in the same post.

In response to the incident, Air India clarified that no emergency was declared on board the flight. "We are aware of media reports regarding an Air India Express flight operating on the Tiruchirappalli-Sharjah route. We would like to clarify that no emergency was declared by the operating crew. After reporting a technical snag, the aircraft circled multiple times in the designated area as a precaution to reduce fuel and weight, considering the runway length, before making a safe precautionary landing. The cause of the snag will be thoroughly investigated. In the interim, an alternative aircraft is being arranged for the onward journey of our guests," the airline stated.

To ensure safety, over 20 ambulances and fire tenders were kept on standby at the airport, according to Airport Director Gopalakrishnan.