Trichy, Tamil Nadu – In a heart-stopping incident that unfolded on Friday evening, the pilots of Air India Express Flight AXB613 have been hailed as heroes after they successfully landed a plane carrying 141 passengers despite encountering serious technical glitches. The flight, which took off from Trichy Airport at 5:43 PM en route to Sharjah, faced a critical failure just minutes after takeoff. Reports indicate that the aircraft's landing gear failed to retract, leaving the pilots with no choice but to circle above the Trichy skies for nearly two hours while working to resolve the issue and communicate with air traffic control.
As the situation developed, the chief pilot, Ikrom Rifadali Fahmi Zainal, and co-pilot Maitreyi Srikrishna Shitole, executed their emergency protocols flawlessly. With a significant amount of fuel on board, they were instructed to remain airborne to reduce weight before attempting to land. The professional handling of the situation ensured the safety of all passengers aboard. Upon landing safely back at Trichy Airport, passengers and their relatives expressed immense gratitude towards the pilots, showering them with praise. "Hech Khare Hero!" many exclaimed, acknowledging their bravery and skill in the face of adversity.
Media outlets quickly captured the heartfelt scene as the pilots exited the aircraft, with clips circulating on social media underlining the public's admiration for their composure and expertise. Air India confirmed the incident, stating, "Due to a technical failure in the hydraulic system of the Air India flight en route from Trichy to Sharjah, the flight was landed. Since the plane had a large amount of fuel, it hovered in the sky for a while to reduce weight. However, the plane landed safely in a few minutes. We are investigating the incident."
As news of the pilots' remarkable response spreads, it serves as a poignant reminder of the dedicated professionals who navigate our skies and ensure the safety of countless passengers. For many, Ikrom and Maitreyi are not just pilots; they are true heroes who faced an emergency with unmatched courage.
