A cargo truck collided with an Akasa Air flight that was scheduled to depart for Delhi from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport early on Monday morning
According to airport officials, the incident occurred around 4:54 AM when a truck belonging to Bird Worldwide Flight Services rammed into the right wing of the parked aircraft.
In a statement, Akasa Air stated, “A third-party ground handler, while operating a cargo truck, came in contact with an Akasa Air aircraft that was parked at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai. The aircraft is currently undergoing a thorough inspection, and we are investigating this incident with the third-party ground handler.”
Both the aircraft and the truck sustained damage in the accident. Following an inspection, the aircraft was declared unfit for flying and was technically categorized as “Aircraft on Ground” (AOG). Akasa Air promptly arranged for an alternative aircraft to ensure passengers could continue their journey to Delhi.
Airport authorities have launched a detailed investigation into the matter. Officials have indicated that strict action will be taken against those found responsible and have emphasized the need for stronger safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The incident comes close on the heels of a tragic Air India crash last month in Ahmedabad, in which over 260 people, including 241 passengers and crews, lost their lives.
The ill-fated flight was en route to London when it crashed just seconds after takeoff, also claiming the life of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.
