Redbird Training Aircraft Makes Emergency Landing in Open Field Near Vijayapura
In a concerning aviation incident, a training aircraft operated by the Redbird Flight Training Academy was forced to make an emergency landing in an open field near Vijayapura on Sunday. The Cessna 172 aircraft, registered as VT-EUC, was on a cross-country flight from Kalaburagi to Belagavi when it reportedly experienced suspected fuel starvation, leading to the forced landing approximately 50 to 70 kilometers short of its destination.
Pilots Escape Unharmed, Aircraft Damaged
Fortunately, both occupants of the aircraft—a flight instructor and a trainee pilot—emerged from the incident completely safe and unharmed. However, the aircraft itself sustained significant damage upon impact during the landing. Aviation authorities have confirmed that the site of the forced landing is located in an open field in the vicinity of Vijayapura, well before reaching Belagavi Airport.
The Aviation Minister issued an official statement detailing the event: “Redbird Flight Training Academy’s Cessna 172 aircraft while operating a cross country flight from Kalaburagi to Belagavi was involved in forced landing in an open field near Vijayapura Sunday due to suspected fuel starvation experienced by the aircraft. The site of forced landing is 50 to 70 km from Belagavi Airport. There were two persons on board, a flight instructor and a trainee pilot. Both the occupants of the aircraft are safe. Due to impact aircraft is damaged… Further investigation will be carried out by DGCA/AAIB.”
DGCA Launches Investigation into Fuel Starvation Incident
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have initiated a thorough probe to determine the exact cause of the suspected fuel starvation. This incident raises critical questions, as the Kalaburagi to Belagavi route is a relatively short sector of about 300 kilometers, making it unusual for an aircraft to run out of fuel under normal circumstances.
Investigators will be examining multiple factors, including the aircraft’s fuel management systems, pre-flight checks, and operational procedures. The Cessna 172 involved in this incident was manufactured in 1975, adding another layer to the investigation regarding its maintenance and airworthiness.
Redbird’s History of Mishaps and Regulatory Scrutiny
This is not the first time Redbird Flight Training Academy has faced regulatory scrutiny. In October 2023, the DGCA temporarily suspended the academy’s operations following a series of non-fatal mishaps. Operations were resumed only after the regulator conducted detailed checks and ensured compliance with safety standards.
Redbird is one of India’s largest flying training schools, boasting a fleet of 48 aircraft. The academy plays a crucial role in pilot training across the country, making safety incidents like this particularly significant for the aviation community and regulatory bodies.
Key Points from the Incident
- Aircraft: Cessna 172 (VT-EUC), built in 1975.
- Route: Kalaburagi to Belagavi, a short sector of approximately 300 km.
- Location of Landing: Open field near Vijayapura, 50-70 km from Belagavi Airport.
- Occupants: Flight instructor and trainee pilot, both safe.
- Damage: Aircraft sustained impact damage.
- Investigation: DGCA/AAIB probing suspected fuel starvation.
The aviation industry will be closely watching the outcome of this investigation, as it highlights ongoing challenges in flight training safety and regulatory oversight in India’s growing aviation sector.
