Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin expresses happiness after 'Air India Express' landed safely at Tiruchirapalli

After receiving the news of the safe landing of flight, the Tamil Nadu CM coordinated an emergency meeting with officials over the phone and instructed them to implement all necessary safety measures.

"The Air India Express Flight IX 613 from Tiruchirapalli to Sharjah has landed safely at Tiruchirapalli airport. DGCA was monitoring the situation. The landing gear was opening. The flight has landed normally. The airport was put on alert mode," said the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Previously it was reported that the flight experienced a technical problem (hydraulic failure) and was circling in the air to burn off fuel before it could make the landing attempt at Trichy airport.

Taking to X CM Stallin wrote, "I am heartened to hear that the AirIndia Express flight has landed safely. Upon receiving news of the landing gear issue, I immediately coordinated an emergency meeting with officials over the phone and instructed them to implement all necessary safety measures, including deploying fire engines, ambulances, and medical assistance."

Tamil Nadu Governor N Ravi thanked the captain and the co-pilot for the of the flight for safe landing,

"Many thanks to the Captain and the Co-Pilot for the safe landing of flight IX613 from Tiruchirappalli to Sharjah after the landing gear glitch. The courage and calm professionalism of the cockpit and cabin crew truly shone during this trying and tense moment. Heartfelt appreciation goes out to everyone involved, including emergency services, for ensuring the safety of all on board. Wishing everyone smooth travels ahead!," Tamil Nadu governor N Ravi

"I have also now directed the District Collector to ensure the continued safety of all the passengers and to provide further assistance. My compliments to the Captain and crew for the safe landing," Stalin added in the same post.

In its statement Air India denied reports of any emergency being declared on-board the flight.

"We are aware of media reports related to an Air India Express flight operating on the Tiruchirappalli - Sharjah route. We would like to clarify that no emergency was declared by the operating crew. After reporting a technical snag, the aircraft circled multiple times in the designated area as an abundant precaution, to reduce fuel and weight considering the runway length, before making a safe precautionary landing. The cause of the snag will be duly investigated. In the interim, an alternative aircraft is being arranged for the onward journey of our guests," the Airline said.

To ensure safety, over 20 ambulances and fire tenders were kept on standby at the airport, said Airport Director Gopalakrishnan. (ANI)