An Air India pilot has been removed from duty after a Delhi-to-Amritsar flight briefly entered Pakistani airspace during landing preparations, according to Indian media reports.
The incident took place on the night of June 22 involving flight AI479 as it was preparing to land at Amritsar Airport.
Reports said the situation developed after a bird-hit incident involving another aircraft prompted a runway inspection. As a result, incoming flights were asked to remain airborne until further clearance was given.
During the holding period, the aircraft was attempting to land under radar guidance when it unintentionally crossed into Pakistani airspace for a short time, reportedly by around three miles, according to India’s civil aviation regulator.
The regulator said Pakistani air traffic control authorities were contacted immediately, after which the aircraft returned to Indian airspace and made another attempt to land in Amritsar. However, due to low fuel, the flight was later diverted back to Delhi for landing.
Following the incident, departmental action was taken against the flight crew and the pilot was removed from duty.
Action has also reportedly been initiated against an air traffic controller at Amritsar Airport for failing to report the incident on time.
Air India has also confirmed the incident, saying the aircraft made a minor airspace violation during landing. The airline said the relevant regulatory authorities had been informed and an internal inquiry had also been launched.
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