An Alliance Air ATR flight landed safely in Bhuj with a section of its engine exposed after its cowl fell off during take-off in Mumbai. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has currently initiated an investigation into the incident to ascertain why the removable outer covering of the ATR aircraft detached while it was on the runway. As per reports, the flight took off from Mumbai at 6:30 am on Wednesday.
“Alliance Air was scheduled to fly from Mumbai to Bhuj, while the aircraft’s engine cowl fell on the runway and took off without an engine cover,” a Mumbai airport source told ANI.
“The flight landed safely at Bhuj airport, and an investigation has started against the airlines,” a DGCA official told ANI. Soon after the flight took off from Mumbai, the Mumbai Air traffic controller (ATC) reported the issue.
“It was reported by Mumbai ATC that Engine Cowling has been found on runway side after takeoff. It appeared to be from ATR aircraft VT-RKJ at BOM which was operating 91-625(BOM-BHJ). The aircraft is still in continuation of flight,” Mumbai airport official told ANI.
Captain Amit Singh, an aviation expert, blamed poor maintenance work for the incident.
“Incidents of cowl separation usually occur post maintenance activity if latches are not secured. The crew is also expected to ensure that the engine cowl is sited before commencing the flight,” he said.
