Stranded plane disrupts Goa airport traffic

The absence of a towing machine at Dabolim airport disrupted air traffic for over an hour on Sunday after a flight with a hydraulic leak landed and remained stationary on the runway. According to airport sources, “the flight was stranded for about 70 minutes on the runway, as the towing machine was not available.” Airport director Paul Manickam confirmed there was a problem, but added that everything was under control. At about 10:30am the charter flight, arriving from London with 250 passengers on board, developed a hydraulic leak and made an emergency landing. “Fortunately the pilot managed a safe landing,” sources said.

Sources revealed that, naval forces were prepared for any emergency. Navy sources added that when a flight develops a hydraulic leak there are chances that the tyres won’t emerge during landing and a fire can break out as the plane crash lands on the runway. Five charter flights expected to arrive on Monday could be delayed as the flight is occupying a bay at the airport.