An Air India Express flight operating from Delhi to Pune was forced to execute a go-around and abort its initial landing attempt at Pune International Airport on Sunday afternoon. The airline attributed the decision to adverse weather conditions, ensuring the safety of over 100 passengers on board.
Timeline of the Incident
The flight, identified as IX-1083, departed from Delhi at 10:00 AM and was scheduled to land in Pune at approximately 12:25 PM. However, the landing was aborted during the final approach. The aircraft, a Boeing 737Max, eventually touched down safely at 12:40 PM, following a standard go-around procedure. Airline officials confirmed the delay but did not cite any bird-related issues as the cause.
Eyewitness Account Contradicts Official Statement
Contrary to the airline's weather-related explanation, a local resident provided a different perspective. Ankit Bhadana, who lives in a society on Airport Road in Vimananagar, witnessed the event from his balcony. He reported seeing the aircraft abort its landing due to a large flock of birds, likely kites, obstructing the flight path.
"I spotted an Air India plane aborting its landing during the approach to Pune airport due to too many birds, most likely kites, in the air," Bhadana wrote on his X handle. He estimated 15 to 20 birds suddenly appeared, causing the pilot to initiate a climb. The sight was alarming even from a distance, he added.
Recurring Bird Menace at Pune Airport
This incident highlights an ongoing concern at Pune airport. Unusual bird activity near the runway has disrupted flight operations multiple times this year. In a notable event on May 20, passengers aboard a Hyderabad-bound IndiGo flight endured a six-hour wait as air traffic control worked to clear birds from the runway. The same month saw at least 2-3 more disruptions, including flight diversions, linked to similar bird hazards.
When contacted for comment, Pune airport director Santosh Dhoke did not respond to a text message sent on Sunday. An Air India Express spokesperson reiterated that their pilots are extensively trained to handle such situations, prioritizing passenger safety above all.
