A routine taxi operation at Indira Gandhi International Airport took a concerning turn on Thursday when a SpiceJet aircraft collided with a stationary plane operated by Akasa Air, raising fresh questions over ground safety protocols.
According to initial information, the incident involved a SpiceJet Boeing 737-700 during ground movement. The aircraft reportedly struck an Akasa Air plane that was stationary at the time, resulting in damage to the SpiceJet aircraft’s right winglet and the left-hand horizontal stabiliser of the Akasa Air aircraft.
SpiceJet confirmed that its aircraft has been grounded in Delhi for detailed technical inspections and safety checks following the incident.
Akasa Air stated that its flight QP 1406, scheduled to operate from Delhi to Hyderabad, had to return to the bay shortly after pushback due to the ground collision. The airline clarified that its aircraft was not in motion when it was struck.
“All passengers and crew were safely deplaned, and our teams are making alternate travel arrangements for those scheduled to fly to Hyderabad,” an Akasa Air spokesperson said.
Both airlines emphasised that all standard safety protocols were immediately activated, ensuring that there were no injuries to passengers or crew members. Ground staff responded promptly to secure the area and assess the damage.
A detailed investigation into the incident is expected to be carried out in accordance with aviation safety norms. Authorities will likely examine factors such as ground handling procedures, communication between cockpit and ground control, and adherence to taxiing guidelines.
While no casualties were reported, the incident highlights the critical importance of precision and coordination in airport ground operations, especially at busy hubs like Delhi’s IGI Airport.
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