Air India Flight From Kochi Skids Off Runway in Mumbai Amid Heavy Rains, All Passengers Safe

Mumbai: An Air India flight arriving from Kochi veered off the runway while landing at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport early Monday morning, amid intense overnight rainfall that battered the city.

Flight AI 2744, an Airbus A320 (VT-TYA), experienced a “runway excursion” shortly after touchdown on runway 09/27, the airport’s main runway. Airport sources reported that the aircraft skidded briefly off its intended path before coming to a halt. Images from the tarmac revealed partial damage to one of the engines.

Despite the incident, all 179 passengers and crew members on board were declared safe. Air India officials confirmed that the aircraft managed to taxi to the designated bay under its own power, and passengers disembarked safely.

In an official statement, an Air India spokesperson said, “Flight AI2744, operating from Kochi to Mumbai on 21 July 2025, experienced heavy rain during landing, resulting in a runway excursion after touchdown. The aircraft taxied safely to the gate, and all passengers and crew members have since disembarked. The aircraft has been grounded for checks.”

The airline also confirmed that the aircraft has been withdrawn from service pending a detailed technical inspection.

A spokesperson from Mumbai airport confirmed that minor damage was sustained on the surface of runway 09/27. Operations were briefly affected but were later restored. Authorities have initiated a routine investigation into the incident, as per aviation safety protocols.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has also been informed and is expected to conduct an assessment to determine the cause of the incident and assess any potential lapses.

This comes amid ongoing concerns over aircraft operations during Mumbai’s monsoon season, which often sees disruptions due to low visibility, waterlogging, and crosswinds.