Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Friday commended the crew of an Air India Express flight bound for Sharjah that encountered a technical snag mid-air but managed to land safely at Trichy airport. The flight, which departed from Trichy at 5:30 pm, faced a hydraulic failure and circled the airport for nearly two-and-a-half hours before landing safely at 8:15 pm. The plane was carrying 141 passengers.In a post on ‘X,’ CM Stalin expressed relief and pride at the safe landing, stating, “I am heartened to hear that the #AirIndiaExpress flight has landed safely. Upon receiving news of the landing gear issue, I immediately coordinated an emergency meeting with officials over the phone and instructed them to implement all necessary safety measures, including deploying fire engines, ambulances, and medical assistance.”
The Chief Minister added that he had directed the District Collector to ensure the continued safety of the passengers and provide any further assistance needed. He also praised the Captain and crew for their efforts, saying, “My compliments to the Captain and crew for the safe landing.”
The flight’s technical issue prompted swift action, with CM Stalin holding an emergency meeting and ensuring that all safety measures were in place. Fire engines, ambulances, and medical teams were deployed at the airport.
In a statement, Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu said the airport and emergency teams responded swiftly and effectively after a full emergency was declared at 18.05 hours. The flight landed at 20.15 hours.
“The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been instructed to conduct a thorough examination of the aircraft to determine the exact cause of the hydraulic issue.
“In the meantime, Air India Express has been advised to provide all necessary assistance to the passengers, including alternate arrangements for their onward journey,” Naidu said.
The minister also said the crew followed all safety protocols, ensuring the well-being of every passenger during the emergency.
“Following the hydraulic failure reported on Air India Express flight AXB 613 operating from Trichy to Sharjah with 141 people on board, we are relieved that the aircraft has landed safely at Trichy airport,” he added.