Two IndiGo Planes Were on 'Verge of Collision' at Delhi Airport | Here's What Happened Next

In a lip-biting incident, the two aircraft from the budget airline IndiGo, encountered each other, and came dangerously so close while taking off from the Delhi International Airport (IGI).

It has been reported that both aircraft breached the minimum separation level,  which is required for safety purposes. Fortunately, no injuries or damages to the aircraft were reported.

Probe Initiated

The authorities have already launched the probe, labeling it as a serious incident in the aviation industry. An investigation has been initiated, where officials trying to find the actual reason behind this mishap. However, IndiGo is yet to release an official statement on the matter.

Incident Between Airbus A321 and Airbus A320

The report says that both the aircraft, which were involved in the incident have been identified as Airbus A321 with a registration VT-IUO and Airbus A320 (VT-ISO). While the former was gearing up to operate on the Delhi-Hyderabad route, the latter one was departed shortly after for Raipur from the Delhi airport.

It has been reported by the AAIB that the Airbus A321 departed from the Delhi airport, using Runway 27 on November 17. The aircraft was given the green signal from the air traffic controller department for the departure.

Later, it was observed that the plane was inclining towards left, opting takeoff path of RWY 29R. Even at the same time, the A320 was also permitted to operate, and took off from Runway 29 Right, breaching the minimum separation level.

Here’s What AAIB Says

As per the details shared by the Indian Express, quoting the incident report by AAIB, which says, “At the time of the closest vertical separation (400 feet), lateral separation was 1.2 NM (nautical miles). At the time of the closest lateral separation (0.2 NM), the vertical separation was 800 feet. There was no injury to any of the occupants on board in both aircraft.”

Safety Norms

Meanwhile, as per the aviation rules for all aircraft, they are advised to maintain at least a vertical separation of 1,000 feet and a lateral separation of 5 nautical miles.