Emergency Landing of MiG-29K Causes Runway Closure at Goa Airport
Emergency Landing of MiG-29K Causes Runway Closure at Goa Airport
Goa’s Dabolim Airport faced significant operational disruptions after an Indian Navy MiG-29K fighter jet experienced a hydraulic snag during landing, leading to minor runway damage. The incident, which occurred at INS Hansa, required prompt action from naval personnel to ensure safety and restore airport operations.
Incident Details
On a routine sortie, the MiG-29K developed a hydraulic failure, causing it to brush against the runway center-line lighting. Despite this, the aircraft landed safely without sustaining damage, nor was there significant harm to the runway itself. However, the damage to the runway lights necessitated an immediate closure to clear debris and ensure the safety of subsequent flights.
Impact on Airport Operations
The closure of the runway at Dabolim Airport led to substantial disruptions:
- – Four flights were diverted to Manohar International Airport.
- – Several flights were delayed, causing inconvenience to numerous passengers.
- – The runway was closed from approximately 4.50 PM to 6.30 PM.
Response and Recovery
- The Indian Navy swiftly managed the situation:
- – The runway was made available within two hours, minimizing the disruption to civilian air traffic.
- – Prompt clearance of debris allowed for the resumption of normal operations post-6.30 PM.
Airline and Passenger Reactions
IndiGo, one of the airlines affected, issued advisories to passengers, offering alternate flights or full refunds. An IndiGo spokesperson acknowledged the uncontrollable nature of the incident and emphasized efforts to accommodate affected passengers.
Goa airport director S. V. T. Dhanamjaya Rao confirmed the temporary runway unavailability and assured that flight operations returned to normal shortly after the incident was resolved.
