An Air India flight from Thiruvananthapuram to Delhi, AI2455, faced a dramatic ordeal on August 10, 2025, when it was diverted to Chennai due to a suspected technical issue and challenging weather conditions. The flight, carrying several MPs including Congress secretary KC Venugopal, encountered severe turbulence shortly after its 8:00 PM takeoff. About an hour into the journey, the captain announced a flight signal fault, prompting the diversion to Chennai, where the plane landed safely at approximately 10:35 PM, according to Flightradar24.com.
The situation escalated during the first landing attempt in Chennai, when air traffic control (ATC) instructed the crew to perform a go-around. Congress MP KC Venugopal, who was on board, described a "heart-stopping moment" in a social media post, alleging that another aircraft was on the same runway during the initial landing attempt. He credited the captain’s quick decision to pull up for saving the lives of all passengers. “We were saved by skill and luck,” Venugopal wrote, urging the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation to investigate the incident and ensure accountability to prevent future lapses.
Air India, however, clarified that the go-around was instructed by Chennai ATC due to standard procedures, not because of another aircraft on the runway. The airline emphasized that the diversion was a precautionary measure due to the suspected technical issue and adverse weather. “Our pilots are well-trained to handle such situations, and in this case, they followed standard procedures throughout the flight,” an Air India spokesperson stated. The aircraft is undergoing necessary checks in Chennai, and the airline is arranging alternative travel options for passengers to reach their destinations as soon as possible.
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The incident has raised concerns, especially given recent reports of technical issues with some Air India aircraft. The airline expressed regret for the inconvenience and reaffirmed that passenger safety remains its top priority. Venugopal’s call for a thorough investigation highlights the need for transparency and accountability in addressing such incidents to ensure safer skies for all.
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