DGCA launches probe into runway excursion involving training aircraft in Maharashtra
Baramati, August 9
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation Air Safety team initiated a preliminary investigation to ascertain the circumstances and contributing factors leading to the runway excursion incident at the Baramati airfield in Maharashtra on Sunday during a training exercise.
A runway excursion incident involving a Cessna C172 type aircraft, registration VT-SEX, operated by Academy of Carver Aviation, a DGCA-approved Flying Training Organisation, occurred at Baramati Airfield, Maharashtra, on Sunday at approximately 12:25 PM.
The aircraft was being operated for a Circuit and Landing Emergencies (CL Emergencies) training exercise. The aircraft was under the command of Capt. Chirag Shashikant Doifode, Flight Instructor, with trainee Abhijeet Jundre on board.
The aircraft taxied out at approximately 0639 UTC (1209 IST) for the scheduled training exercise. During the exercise, the aircraft entered the runway through Link Bravo and lined up at the threshold of Runway 29, where a rejected take-off exercise practice was carried out. Subsequently, the aircraft lined up at the threshold of Runway 11 and another rejected take-off exercise was carried out.
During the course of the exercise, the aircraft was unable to stop within the paved runway surface and subsequently veered off the extended paved surface beyond the threshold of Runway 29 towards the right side, resulting in a runway excursion.
There were no injuries or fatalities reported. The aircraft has sustained prima facie damage to the propeller, engine cowling and nose landing gear. A detailed assessment of the damage will be carried out by the competent authorities.
Further information will be shared as and when it is verified and becomes available.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Grateful no one was injured! But this raises questions about the adequacy of runway surfaces at smaller airfields, especially for training ops. DGCA should also audit the FTO's maintenance and training protocols.
As someone who follows aviation globally, rejected takeoff drills are standard, but the margins at Baramati seem tight. It's essential to factor in weight, wind, and runway conditions during such exercises. Glad the crew walked away.
This is a reminder of how important rigorous training is for our future pilots. However, we must also ensure that our training infrastructure meets global safety standards. Kudos to the instructor and trainee for being safe! 👏
Seems like a textbook case of a rejected takeoff going beyond the paved surface. The real issue might be the lack of a proper overrun area or arresting system at such airfields. Hope the DGCA addresses this infrastructure gap.
It's good that the investigation is already underway. Aviation safety relies on thorough analysis of every incident, even minor ones. Looking forward to the detailed report to understand what improvements can be made.
Honestly, a bit worried about how many training centres operate on such small strips. We need clearer guidelines for FTOs regarding runway length and emergency
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