An Air India pilot has been removed from duty after one of the airline’s flights briefly entered Pakistani airspace during its approach to Amritsar Airport. The incident took place on the night of June 22 and is now being investigated by India’s civil aviation authorities.
The aircraft involved was Air India flight AI479, which was operating from Delhi to Amritsar. According to Indian media reports, the situation developed after another aircraft suffered a bird strike near the airport. The runway was then inspected before additional aircraft were allowed to land.
During the inspection, incoming flights were instructed to remain in the air until further clearance was issued. The Air India aircraft continued flying in a holding pattern while waiting for permission to begin its landing.
Officials said the aircraft was approaching Amritsar under radar guidance when it unintentionally crossed into Pakistani airspace. India’s civil aviation regulator reported that the aircraft entered the neighboring airspace by around three miles before the situation was identified.
Authorities immediately contacted Pakistani air traffic control after the airspace violation was detected. The aircraft was then guided back into Indian airspace. It later attempted another approach to Amritsar Airport.
However, the flight was unable to land because its fuel level had become too low after remaining airborne for an extended period. As a result, the aircraft was diverted back to Delhi, where it landed safely. No injuries to passengers or crew have been reported.
Following the incident, aviation authorities launched departmental proceedings against the flight crew. The Air India pilot involved has been removed from duty while the investigation continues.
Reports also said action has been initiated against an air traffic controller at Amritsar Airport. The official is accused of failing to report the incident within the required time.
Air India confirmed that the aircraft was involved in what it described as a minor airspace violation during its landing attempt. The airline said it informed the relevant aviation authorities soon after the incident. It also announced the start of an internal inquiry to determine how the situation occurred.
The investigation will examine operational decisions, communication procedures, and coordination between the flight crew and air traffic controllers. Officials are expected to review all available data before reaching a final conclusion.
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The outcome of the inquiry will determine whether additional disciplinary or procedural measures are necessary. Until then, the pilot will remain off duty as the investigation continues.
