New Delhi: A ground incident involving two passenger aircraft was reported at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, on Thursday, prompting an investigation by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
The incident occurred near bay No. 106 at Terminal 1. It involved a SpiceJet Boeing 737-700 operating flight SG-124 from Leh to Delhi and an Akasa Air Boeing 737 MAX 8 operating flight QP-1406 from Delhi to Hyderabad, according to an official statement.
According to initial information, the Akasa Air aircraft had pushed back from bay No. 104 and was positioned for engine start. The SpiceJet aircraft, which was holding near bay No. 108, received clearance from air traffic control to taxi towards bay No. 106 after confirming adequate separation.
During taxiing, the right winglet of the SpiceJet aircraft came into contact with the left horizontal stabiliser of the Akasa Air aircraft. Both aircraft sustained damage and have been grounded for detailed inspection and necessary repairs.
Preliminary inputs indicate that the SpiceJet aircraft initiated a turn without wing walker guidance, leading to the contact.
The aviation regulator has launched a detailed inquiry into the incident, including a review of ground handling procedures. Pending the outcome of the investigation, the pilots of the SpiceJet aircraft and the concerned air traffic control officer have been taken off duty.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation said it is monitoring the situation closely and will take necessary steps to ensure adherence to safety protocols and prevent similar occurrences.
