Air India Express Flight 173, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, crashed while landing at Kozhikode Calicut International Airport on 7 August 2020. The aircraft overran the runway, broke into sections, and caught fire, leading to 21 fatalities among the 190 people on board.
Investigations focused on weather conditions, approach procedures, and aircraft performance data to understand how the accident unfolded. This article examines operational context, performance metrics, and safety implications surrounding the Air India 787 crash at Kozhikode.
| Flight | Route | Aircraft | Runway Condition | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AI 173 | Dubai to Kozhikode | Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner | Wet, heavy rain | Runway overrun, fire, 21 fatalities |
| Date | 7 August 2020 | |||
| Operator | Air India Express (subsidiary of Air India) | |||
| Occupants | 190 (173 passengers, 17 crew) | |||
| Survivors | 169, including both pilots | |||
Flight Path And Approach Context
The Boeing 787 approached Kozhikode amid strong winds and heavy rainfall. Local weather reports indicated a low cloud base and reduced visibility, challenging even experienced flight crews.
Data from the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder indicated that the aircraft was slightly high on the glideslope. The crew attempted a go-around, but the aircraft decelerated rapidly and descended below the minimum descent altitude before regaining thrust.
Performance And Aircraft Systems
Weather Impact On Landing Distance
Wet runway conditions significantly increase landing distance due to reduced tire friction. The 787’s advanced braking and spoiler systems were engaged, but standing water contributed to hydroplaning risks.
Thrust Reversal And Autobrakes
The 787 is equipped with thrust reversers and autobrake systems designed to maximize deceleration. Investigators examined whether system limitations, pilot inputs, or software logic affected the aircraft’s ability to stop within available runway length.
| Parameter | Reported Value | Design Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Touchdown Speed | 143 knots | 133–145 knots typical | Within normal range but high on glidepath |
| Runway Length Available | 2,850 meters | Planned use was within limits | Standing water reduced effective length |
| Deceleration Performance | Reduced due to wet conditions | Autobrake settings used | Reversers deployed, but runway overrun occurred |
| Weather | Heavy rain, low clouds | Operational limits met | Visibility below optimal for precision approach |
Investigation Findings And Safety Recommendations
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Boeing investigators focused on crew decision-making, aircraft performance, and airport procedures. The report highlighted challenges in managing energy on a short, wet runway during a night approach.
Safety recommendations led to revised runway safety areas and enhanced monitoring of weather minima at similar airports. Airlines were advised to reinforce training for crosswind and low-visibility scenarios specific to widebody aircraft.
Operational Impact On Air India Express
Following the crash, Air India Express temporarily suspended operations to Kozhikode. The incident prompted a review of operational controls, insurance coverage, and passenger communication protocols across its network.
Regulators required additional monitoring of landing performance calculations, especially for aircraft operating from airports with challenging terrain and weather patterns. Training modules were updated to address real-time risk assessment during approach.
Key Takeaways For Airlines And Passengers
- Wet runway conditions can drastically increase landing distance.
- Crosswind and low-visibility training is critical for widebody operations.
- Real-time performance monitoring can support safer go-around decisions.
- Airport infrastructure, such as runway safety areas, reduces collision risks.
- Continuous analysis of weather and aircraft data improves future safety protocols.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why did the aircraft overrun the runway at Kozhikode?
A combination of wet runway conditions, reduced braking efficiency, and a slightly high approach path limited the aircraft’s ability to stop within the available runway length.
Were the pilots at fault for the Air India 787 crash?
Pilot actions are under investigation, but initial findings indicate decisions were consistent with standard procedures; weather and aircraft performance limitations were significant contributing factors.
How has aviation safety changed after this Air India 787 crash?
Airports have improved runway safety areas, airlines have updated training for wet landings, and regulators have enhanced monitoring of weather minima and aircraft performance data.
What technical features of the Boeing 787 were relevant to the accident?
The 787’s advanced autobrakes and thrust reversers performed as designed, but heavy rain and standing water reduced overall deceleration, highlighting limits of technology in extreme conditions.