Imagine this: a cargo container, accidentally dislodged from a ground vehicle, finds its way onto the taxiway at Delhi airport. And then, in a shocking turn of events, it's sucked into the engine of an Air India plane, causing significant damage. Thankfully, no one was harmed, but the incident has sparked a full-scale investigation by India's aviation watchdog, the DGCA.
The Airbus A350, bound for New York, had to return to Delhi due to a temporary closure of Iranian airspace. As it taxied to its parking bay with passengers on board, the dense fog reduced visibility, and the container's unfortunate encounter with the engine occurred. Approximately 240 passengers and a crew of 6-8 were on board at the time.
The incident took place on Thursday at 05:25 local time, as the aircraft was making its way to the apron area. The cargo container had fallen from a cart with a missing wheel, and the vehicle operator, focused on the incoming aircraft, left the area with the remaining cargo, unknowingly leaving the container behind.
"The container which fell was left behind and it got ingested into the No. 2 engine of the aircraft," Air India explained. The DGCA has since cleared the taxiway of metal debris and towed the aircraft to a designated stand, but the damage to the engine and its fan blades is evident in photos shared by the DGCA on X.
This incident adds to the growing concerns about ground safety at India's busy airports. Last year, the DGCA flagged numerous safety lapses at major Indian airports and airlines, including faded runway markings, inadequate maintenance, and unauthorized cockpit access. Air India, already facing staff shortages, has warned of potential disruptions on select A350 routes due to this latest grounding.
With six Airbus A350 aircraft operating long-haul routes, including London and New York, the impact of this incident could be significant. As the investigation unfolds, one can't help but wonder: Are these safety concerns an isolated incident, or a systemic issue that needs urgent attention? What steps should be taken to ensure such incidents don't recur? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
