An Air India aircraft inadvertently steered onto the same taxiway as an IndiGo plane at Ahmedabad airport on the evening of June 24, 2026, prompting a safety investigation. The incident occurred as the Air India flight, AI 2493 from Mumbai, was taxiing toward the parking bay after landing and took a wrong turn, bringing it directly in front of the IndiGo aircraft that was preparing for takeoff to Mumbai.
Aircraft halted safely with 200-metre separation
According to airport sources, both planes came to a stop at a safe distance of around 200 metres from each other. The IndiGo flight, 6E 5160, was holding on the taxiway awaiting departure clearance when the Air India plane entered the same path. The pilots of both aircraft applied brakes, and no collision occurred. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been notified, and an investigation has been launched.
Air India acknowledges wrong turn
Air India issued a statement confirming that its flight AI 2493, operating from Mumbai to Ahmedabad on June 24, inadvertently took a wrong turn during taxiing after landing. The airline emphasized that there was no compromise on the safety of passengers and crew. The aircraft was subsequently towed back to the parking bay. Air India added, “The matter has been reported to the regulatory authorities and an investigation initiated.”
IndiGo confirms safe halt and departure
IndiGo stated that its flight 6E 5160, scheduled from Ahmedabad to Mumbai, was briefly delayed while taxiing out for departure after an aircraft of another airline inadvertently took an incorrect turn and came in the way of its aircraft. The airline said, “Both aircraft came to a halt at a safe distance from each other. The other aircraft was subsequently towed away, and our flight departed and landed safely at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai.” IndiGo also confirmed that the relevant authorities were immediately informed.
Both aircraft were narrow-body A320s
The two aircraft involved were both narrow-body Airbus A320s. Details about the number of passengers on board either flight could not be ascertained. The incident has raised questions about taxiway markings and coordination between ground control and pilots, especially during evening operations.
Industry context and safety protocols
This incident comes amid heightened scrutiny of runway and taxiway safety in Indian aviation. The DGCA has previously issued advisories on strict adherence to taxi instructions and the importance of situational awareness during ground movements. The investigation will likely focus on communication between Air Traffic Control and the Air India crew, as well as any signage or lighting issues that may have contributed to the wrong turn.
