Mumbai — September 12, 2025 — A Spicejet Bombardier Q400 aircraft lost an outer wheel during its take-off from Kandla Airport, triggering a full emergency declaration upon arrival at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA). All 75 people aboard landed safely and disembarked without injury.
Incident Details
The aircraft, operating flight SG 2906 from Kandla (Gujarat) to Mumbai, took off around 2:39 p.m. local time on Friday. As it lifted off from runway 23 at Kandla, witnesses and air traffic control observed a component detaching from the right side of the main landing gear. The detached item — identified as the outer wheel and associated metal rings — rolled off the runway.
The flight continued to Mumbai despite the malfunction. At 3:51 p.m., CSMIA declared a full emergency as a precaution. The aircraft landed safely on runway 27 and then taxied under its own power to the terminal. All passengers and crew disembarked normally.
Possible Causes and Expert Commentary
Officials and experts cite multiple potential causes for a wheel detachment in such a scenario. The landing gear on a Q400 aircraft includes two wheels on each main gear, making a wheel falling off an outer unit serious but not necessarily catastrophic if the remaining wheel holds.
According to a former DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) official, such detachments may stem from issues like faulty locking mechanisms, under-torqued axle nuts, fatigue of retention hardware, or improper installation. Another airline engineering source noted the significance of redundancy in gear design, which likely prevented a more severe outcome.
Operational Response and Safety Measures
Spicejet confirmed the incident shortly after landing, stating: “An outer wheel of a Spicejet Q400 aircraft operating from Kandla to Mumbai was found at the runway after take-off. The aircraft continued its journey to Mumbai and landed safely. Following a smooth landing, it taxied to the terminal under its own power…”
CSMIA and Mumbai airport authorities placed fire, rescue, and medical emergency services on standby during the full emergency. After the aircraft landed safely, operations resumed normally.
What It Means for Passengers and Aviation Safety
Though unusual, landing-gear detachments are among aircraft incidents that can occur even under proper maintenance protocols. This incident highlights the importance of routine inspections and strict adherence to safety standards. For passengers, it reinforces the role of regular oversight by airline operators and aviation regulators.
No injuries were sustained, but the psychological effect of such mid-air scares can be significant. Airline operators may now face increasing pressure to audit maintenance logs, evaluate landing-gear component integrity, and reassure public confidence. Regulatory bodies such as the DGCA are likely to closely examine this event in light of prior safety audits.
FAQs
A: A Spicejet Q400 aircraft, departing from Kandla for Mumbai, lost its outer right-main gear wheel during takeoff. The crew landed safely in Mumbai after declaring a full emergency.
A: No injuries were reported. The aircraft landed safely and all passengers disembarked normally.
A: Possible causes include issues with locking mechanisms, under-torqued axle components, improper wheel installation, or fatigue of parts. Investigations are underway. Airline and airport authorities have confirmed the incident and indicated that safety protocols will be reviewed.
Source: TOI
