Air India Express Resolves Hydraulic Issue on Tiruchirappalli Flight

An Air India Express flight en route from Tiruchirappalli to Sharjah safely executed an emergency landing after experiencing a hydraulic malfunction shortly after take-off. The incident occurred on a Boeing 737 (VT-AYB) carrying 144 passengers, prompting immediate precautions by airport authorities.

The aircraft, which lifted off from Tiruchirappalli Airport at 5:43 pm, encountered the technical issue when the landing gear failed to retract post-departure. Consequently, the decision was made to return the aircraft to the departure point to ensure passenger safety.

Aviation protocol necessitated the aircraft burn off excess fuel to achieve optimal landing weight, thus avoiding potential damage to the landing gear during touchdown. The plane remained airborne for over two and a half hours, finally descending safely at approximately 8:15 pm.

The Tiruchirappalli airport prepared for a possible emergency, lining runways with standby ambulances and emergency vehicles to mitigate any adverse outcomes. An aviation ministry spokesperson confirmed the safe landing and stated, “The aircraft has landed safely. The DGCA is monitoring the situation.”

Sources indicate the incident was classified as a “precautionary landing.” This proactive approach demonstrates the airline’s commitment to standard safety protocols, ensuring passenger protection during unforeseen technical malfunctions.

While disruption occurred during what was intended to be a routine flight, the swift response by both Air India Express personnel and Tiruchirappalli airport staff underscored effective coordination in aviation safety operations.