Two passenger aircraft operated by Air India and IndiGo were involved in a minor ground incident at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on Tuesday evening, when their wingtips made contact during taxiing. No injuries were reported, and all passengers safely disembarked, officials confirmed.
The incident took place around 7:30 pm as Air India flight AI 2732, scheduled to operate from Mumbai to Coimbatore, was pushing back from the bay for departure. At the same time, IndiGo flight 6E 791, arriving from Hyderabad, was taxiing after landing.
What Happened: Step-by-Step
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Both aircraft involved were Airbus A320 models.
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As the Air India aircraft began its pushback maneuver, the IndiGo aircraft was taxiing toward its parking bay.
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The right wingtips of the two planes briefly brushed against each other on the taxiway.
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Following the contact, both aircraft were immediately returned to their respective bays for inspection.
Airport authorities informed the Mumbai division of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), whose officials reached the site shortly after and initiated an inquiry into the incident.
Air India Statement
An Air India spokesperson confirmed the occurrence, stating:
“Flight AI 2732, operating from Mumbai to Coimbatore, was delayed after the aircraft came into contact with another airline’s aircraft while waiting on the taxiway prior to take-off. The wingtips of the two aircraft made contact, resulting in damage to our aircraft’s wingtip.”
The airline added that the aircraft has been grounded as a precautionary measure for detailed technical checks. “All passengers have safely disembarked, and alternative arrangements are being made to transport them to their destination at the earliest. The incident has been reported to the regulator,” the spokesperson said.
IndiGo Response
IndiGo also acknowledged the incident, confirming passenger safety.
“All passengers are safe and disembarked after parking. The aircraft is undergoing maintenance inspections. In line with standard operating procedures, the relevant authorities were promptly informed, and the matter is under investigation,” an airline spokesperson said.
The DGCA is expected to review ground movement protocols and assess whether any procedural lapses contributed to the incident.
