Terrifying Moments Aboard Air India Flight: MPs Recount Aborted Takeoff Ordeal at Kochi

What began as a routine journey for 172 passengers and six crew members aboard Air India flight AI-828 from Kochi to Delhi quickly turned into a heart-stopping ordeal. As the A320neo aircraft roared down the runway at Cochin International Airport (CIAL) on Friday, preparing for liftoff, a sudden and critical technical snag forced an emergency aborted takeoff, plunging those on board into moments of profound uncertainty and fear.

The incident unfolded during the critical acceleration phase.

According to reports, the pilots detected an issue with one of the engines – possibly a failure or malfunction – prompting an immediate and decisive response. The brakes were slammed on, bringing the accelerating jet to a jarring halt. Passengers described the experience as a terrifying lurch, accompanied by loud bangs and a distinct sensation of skidding.

Among the shaken passengers were several Members of Parliament, whose firsthand accounts painted a vivid picture of the chaos.

Karti P Chidambaram, an MP from Sivaganga, recounted the "loud bang" and the sensation of the aircraft skidding violently. "Felt like the flight skid on the runway," he posted on social media, expressing relief that everyone was safe. TN Prathapan, MP from Thrissur, echoed similar sentiments, describing the experience as "scary" and noting the sudden jerking motion that sent a wave of unease through the cabin.

While initial reports did not explicitly mention smoke, such incidents can sometimes be accompanied by visible fumes or burning smells, adding to passenger distress.

Following the emergency stop, the flight crew efficiently managed the situation. Passengers were safely deplaned and directed back to the terminal.

Despite the shock, the quick actions of the pilots and cabin crew ensured no injuries were reported, turning a potential catastrophe into a harrowing but ultimately safe escape. Air India swiftly arranged an alternative flight, ensuring passengers could continue their journey to Delhi after a significant delay and a fresh wave of adrenaline.

Authorities have taken immediate notice of the serious incident.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated a thorough investigation into the aborted takeoff. Engineers are meticulously inspecting the A320neo aircraft to determine the precise nature and cause of the technical snag. Air India, for its part, affirmed its commitment to passenger safety, stating that the decision to abort was a proactive measure taken in line with safety protocols to prevent any potential risks.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the rigorous safety checks and pilot training that underpin commercial aviation.

While such occurrences are rare, they highlight the critical importance of swift decision-making and robust emergency procedures in ensuring the well-being of hundreds of lives. For those on board AI-828, it was a dramatic reminder of the unpredictable nature of travel and the profound relief that comes with touching solid ground after a close call.