Mumbai, July 21, 2025 – Passengers on Air India flight AI2744 faced a tense moment when the aircraft veered off the runway while landing at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport amid heavy rainfall. Thankfully, everyone on board, including passengers and crew, was safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported.
The incident took place at around 9:27 am when the Airbus aircraft, which was landing amid heavy monsoon rains, skidded off the main runway (27/09) after landing. According to airport officials, three tyres burst during landing, causing minor damage to the main runway.
Emergency response activated immediately
The airport authorities at CSMIA swung into action immediately. Emergency response teams were immediately deployed to handle the situation, ensuring the safety of all on board the aircraft. An official statement from the airport confirmed:
“At 9:27 AM on July 21, 2025, a flight arriving from Kochi skidded past the runway while landing at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA). Emergency teams were immediately activated. All passengers and crew are safe.”
The aircraft safely reached the gate and passengers were allowed to disembark without any delay.
Plane grounded, DGCA begins probe
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has begun a probe into the incident. Sources quoted by PTI said that DGCA officials are reviewing the circumstances leading to the runway exit, including weather conditions, pilot handling and aircraft performance at the time of landing.
A senior DGCA official said the incident of tyre burst and skidding could be linked to excessive hydroplaning due to the rain-soaked runway. However, a detailed assessment will reveal whether it was a mechanical problem or human error.
Air India issued a statement
An Air India spokesperson confirmed the safety of the passengers and said the aircraft has been grounded for technical inspection.
On July 21, 2025, flight AI2744 from Kochi to Mumbai faced heavy rainfall during landing, causing a runway excursion. The aircraft reached the gate safely, and all passengers and crew disembarked without incident. It has been grounded for inspection, as passenger and crew safety is our top priority,” the spokesperson said.
Operations shifted to secondary runway
Due to minor damage on the primary runway, CSMIA has activated its secondary runway (14/32) to ensure uninterrupted flight operations.
Airport officials stressed that safety is their top priority and assured passengers that all necessary checks and protocols are in place to prevent any disruption or delay.
The spokesperson also noted that the airport’s primary runway (09/27) sustained minor damage as a result of the incident. To continue operations, the secondary runway 14/32 has been activated.”
Passengers appreciate quick response
Many passengers on board the flight expressed relief and appreciation for the prompt action taken by the flight crew and airport emergency teams.
Ramesh Patel, a passenger from Kochi, said, “There was a bit of panic during landing, especially due to the sudden jolt, but the crew handled it calmly. We are thankful for the quick response.”
This incident highlights the increasing challenges faced by airports and airlines during India’s monsoon season. Although the situation was managed efficiently without any casualties, the ongoing DGCA investigation will play a key role in strengthening protocols for safe landing in adverse weather
Passengers are advised to contact their airlines for updates, as operations may be slightly delayed due to ongoing runway maintenance at Mumbai airport.
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