Kingfisher ATR aircrafts involved in minor mishap

In a major slip-up that could have resulted in a disaster, two aircraft of Kingfisher Airlines hit each other at Visakhapatnam airport on Tuesday afternoon. Though no one was injured, both planes were grounded. Airport officials said the incident took place around 1.30 pm. "The Kingfisher flight from Hyderabad was entering the parking bay to allow passengers to disembark when the Chennai-bound plane of the same airline — fully loaded with passengers — taxied out of the parking bay for take-off," Visakhapatnam airport controller C Pattabhi said. The airline, while confirming the incident, denied there were any passengers on board the Chennai-bound flight. "One aircraft was parked and waiting to board passengers when the wing tip of another plane brushed with this stationary plane. We have grounded both aircraft and will look into the matter," a Kingfisher Airlines spokesperson said. Both aircraft are ATR72-500's. The right wing of the Chennai-bound aircraft hit the left wing of the aircraft from Hyderabad, the airport controller said.

"The air traffic control instructions were clear, but the Chennai-bound plane's pilot erred by leaving the bay for take-off even as the flight from Hyderabad was entering the area. It is clearly the fault of the Chennai plane pilot," Pattabhi said. Both aircraft suffered minor damages and were grounded. Alternative arrangements were made for passengers, officials said and added that other flights operated as usual. According to airport officials, it could have been a greater tragedy had the Chennai-bound plane picked up speed. "The Vizag airport is a big one. If it is the pilot's fault, then action should be taken against him for needlessly endangering human lives," said an official. Analysts said the fact two planes of the airline were grounded would mean revenue losses for the company. Each plane does a minimum of 8-10 hours flying duty everyday, if not more. Airport officials said the planes will only be allowed to fly after DGCA representatives inspect and clear their airworthiness.

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