Jamshedpur
Panic gripped Sonari Airport on Sunday around 4:10 PM after a small passenger aircraft of India One Air, arriving from Bhubaneswar, skidded off the runway during landing and came to a halt in a grassy patch adjacent to the tarmac. The incident occurred amid light rain, which had left the runway slippery and compromised landing conditions.
The aircraft had nine passengers and two crew members on board. Fortunately, all passengers were safely evacuated. One passenger reportedly sustained minor injuries and received immediate first aid. Fire brigade teams responded swiftly, ensuring no further damage or danger.
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According to eyewitnesses, the plane was making its final descent when it suddenly veered off the runway and rolled into the grassy area due to the wet surface. The presence of mind shown by the pilot and the airport ground staff played a crucial role in preventing a disaster.
AAI and AAIB Begin Investigation
Following the incident, officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) reached Sonari Airport on Monday morning to begin a detailed inquiry. The investigation team inspected the runway, aircraft condition, and collected key data including flight recorder details to understand the sequence of events and assess any technical faults.
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Questions on Airport Safety Resurface
This runway incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety infrastructure at regional airports, especially during the monsoon season. Experts argue that improved drainage systems, anti-skid runway materials, and advanced landing aids are needed to avoid such incidents in future.
The India One Air flight from Bhubaneswar to Jamshedpur is part of a regional connectivity push under the UDAN scheme, aiming to connect Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities through affordable air travel. However, Sunday’s event underscores the need for enhanced weather preparedness and emergency response systems at smaller airports.
Passengers praised the crew’s composure and response during the emergency. “It was terrifying for a moment, but the pilot handled it very well,” said one relieved traveler.
While flights are currently under review for operational safety, authorities have ensured that routine air services will resume after safety clearance.