Congress MP alleges near-tragedy on Chennai runway; Air India and DGCA deny claim, sparking political war of words.
Congress MP’s Runway Horror Claim
A social media post by Congress MP KC Venugopal about a “frighteningly close to tragedy” moment aboard Air India flight AI 2455 has triggered a heated political row.
Venugopal, who was travelling from Thiruvananthapuram to Delhi along with several MPs, alleged:
- The flight was delayed before departure.
- Severe turbulence struck shortly after take-off.
- An hour later, the captain announced a flight signal fault and diverted to Chennai.
- While attempting to land, another aircraft was allegedly on the same runway, forcing a quick go-around.
- The second landing attempt succeeded, with lives saved “by skill and luck.”
He urged the DGCA and the Civil Aviation Ministry to investigate and ensure passenger safety does not “depend on luck.”
Air India’s Clarification
Air India disputed the MP’s version, stating:
- The diversion was precautionary due to a suspected technical issue and poor weather.
- The go-around was instructed by Chennai ATC, not because of another aircraft on the runway.
- Pilots followed standard procedures and ensured passenger safety at all times.
The airline expressed regret for the inconvenience but stressed that “safety is always our priority.”
DGCA’s Version of Events
According to a DGCA source:
- The diversion was due to a weather radar malfunction.
- The aircraft circled to burn fuel and avoid an overweight landing.
- During approach, ATC reported debris on the runway, prompting the go-around.
- The aircraft landed safely and passed inspection, with a transreceiver replaced as a precaution.
Political Backlash from BJP
Senior BJP leader Amit Malviya reacted sharply, saying:
“If KC Venugopal is found spreading falsehoods about air safety, he should be put on a no-fly list.”
Malviya insisted that aviation safety cannot be compromised by misinformation and that either the MP or Air India was misrepresenting facts.
Aviation Safety Under Scrutiny
This row comes weeks after the AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad that killed 260 people, putting airline safety and maintenance under the spotlight.
- Multiple precautionary landings since have heightened public concern.
- Airlines have been attempting to reassure passengers that safety remains the top priority.
With KC Venugopal standing by his account and Air India and the DGCA firmly denying it, the incident is set to remain a flashpoint in both political and aviation circles. Any official probe outcome will not only determine accountability but could also influence public trust in India’s air travel safety.
Also Read : Saved by Skill and Luck: Congress MP Recounts ‘Harrowing’ Air India Flight Incident
