Air India Flight Crosses Into Pakistan Airspace Near Amritsar During Critical Maneuver, Probe Launched
An Air India flight operating between Delhi and Amritsar briefly entered Pakistani airspace while performing a go-around maneuver near Amritsar Airport, prompting an internal investigation and regulatory review.
The airline confirmed that the incident involved Flight AI479 on June 22 and said passenger and crew safety remained uncompromised throughout the operation.
What Happened?
According to Air India, the aircraft was approaching Amritsar Airport when it initiated a go-around maneuver, a standard aviation safety procedure used when a landing cannot be safely completed on the first attempt.
During the maneuver, the aircraft reportedly crossed the International Border for a short period and entered Pakistani airspace before returning to its designated route.
“The crew operating flight AI479 from Delhi to Amritsar had marginally infringed into Pakistan airspace while manoeuvring a go-around at Amritsar airport,” the airline said in an official statement.
Preliminary Findings Reveal Navigation Deviation
Initial information suggests that Air Traffic Control (ATC) instructed the aircraft to hold at a designated Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) point before landing.
However, during the maneuver, the aircraft continued toward the approach area, executed a left turn, and briefly crossed the International Border.
Aviation experts note that go-around procedures are designed to prioritize safety and allow pilots to reposition the aircraft for another landing attempt when necessary.
Air India Launches Internal Investigation
Air India stated that the matter has been reported to relevant aviation regulators and is currently under review.
“The incident has been reported to the regulatory authorities and is being investigated internally. At Air India, the safety of passengers and crew remains our top priority,” the airline said.
The carrier has not disclosed additional operational details pending the outcome of the investigation.
What Is a Go-Around Maneuver?
A go-around is a routine safety procedure in aviation. Pilots perform it when landing conditions are not considered optimal due to factors such as:
- Air traffic congestion
- Weather conditions
- Runway occupancy
- Aircraft positioning issues
- Safety considerations during approach
The maneuver allows pilots to abort a landing safely and prepare for another approach.
Regulatory Authorities Monitoring the Incident
The brief airspace infringement comes amid heightened sensitivity surrounding aviation operations near international borders.
Authorities are expected to review flight data, ATC communications, navigation records, and operational procedures to determine how the aircraft deviated from its assigned path.
No injuries, safety concerns, or operational disruptions were reported as a result of the incident.
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