Loose Wheel on Airport Tug Blamed for Air India A350 Engine Ingestion at Delhi Airport
A single loose wheel on a container transporter likely triggered a serious incident at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) on Thursday morning. The event unfolded in dense fog, causing significant damage to an Air India Airbus A350 aircraft.
Preliminary Findings Point to Mechanical Failure
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) conducted a preliminary investigation into the mishap. Their initial report reveals a clear chain of events. A Bird Worldwide Flight Services (BWFS) tug was moving several containers near bay 242 at the airport early Thursday. This area is specifically reserved for Air Mauritius ground service equipment parking.
These containers are the standard units passengers commonly observe near aircraft during docking operations. They handle baggage and various other cargo items. According to the DGCA findings, one of the wheels on the BWFS tug detached unexpectedly during transport.
Container Topples and Is Left Behind
The loss of the wheel caused one container to become unstable. It subsequently toppled directly onto the taxiway. The equipment operator noticed an Air India aircraft taxiing in the vicinity. In response, the operator vacated the spot with the remaining dollies and containers.
However, the fallen container was left behind on the taxiway. This critical oversight set the stage for the subsequent damage.
Aircraft Engine Ingests the Container
The Air India Airbus A350 had just completed a safe landing on runway 28. As the aircraft taxied towards the apron, it approached the junction of taxiways N and N4. It was at this point that engine number two ingested the abandoned cargo container.
The ingestion caused immediate and noticeable damage to the engine. After the incident, ground crews worked to clear metal pieces from the area. The aircraft was then safely parked at stand 244 for further inspection and assessment.
Investigation Continues
The DGCA's air safety division for the northern region has taken charge of the probe. They are conducting a thorough investigation to determine all contributing factors and to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Safety protocols at the airport are under review following this unusual event.
This incident highlights the importance of meticulous ground handling procedures, especially during challenging weather conditions like the dense fog present that morning.
