Kochi: An Air India Express aircraft operating from Jeddah to Kozhikode was diverted to Kochi on Thursday morning after the crew detected a technical problem related to the plane’s landing gear, airport authorities confirmed. The flight was carrying around 160 passengers at the time.
According to officials at Cochin International Airport, the aircraft made a precautionary landing after concerns arose over the right-side landing gear and tyres. The plane touched down safely at approximately 9.07 am, with full emergency protocols already in place on the ground.
Airport authorities said rescue and fire services were positioned well in advance as a standard safety measure. Following the landing, inspections revealed damage to the tyres on the right side of the aircraft. No injuries were reported among passengers or crew members.
A spokesperson for Cochin International Airport Limited said the situation was handled efficiently, allowing the runway to be cleared shortly after the incident. Normal flight operations were resumed once safety checks were completed.
Passengers were assisted after the landing, while technical teams examined the aircraft. Officials reiterated that the diversion was carried out purely as a safety precaution and that emergency preparedness ensured a smooth and controlled outcome.
