Chennai: A Condor aircraft attempted an emergency landing at Chennai airport on March 30 due to a technical failure on a SpiceJet flight. After departing from Jaipur airport, the flight encountered a technical issue mid-air, prompting a swift landing at 5:46 AM.

Following the landing, immediate measures were taken to replace the aircraft’s engine diesel oil using a mobile unit specifically designed for such emergencies. Aviation officials confirmed that all passengers and crew aboard SG9046 were safely evacuated using emergency protocols.

Chennai news

Chennai: A Similar Incident Occurred Earlier

This incident mirrors one that took place just two days prior, when the airline announced the formal renewal of its IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification, valid until March 2027. In December 2024, two planes experienced technical malfunctions on the same day, leading to diversions—one involving a flight with 117 passengers due to a jet engine failure. Subsequently, a mobile unit was deployed to drain the diesel oil, and an emergency landing was executed on Chennai airport’s designated runway.

Chennai airport

Chennai International Airport, located in Tamil Nadu, India, is one of the country’s busiest airports and serves as a major gateway to South India. Originally established in 1952 as Meenambakkam Airport, it was modernized and expanded over the years to handle increasing passenger traffic. Today, it features both domestic and international terminals and plays a key role in connecting Chennai to global destinations.

Jaipur airport

Jaipur Airport, officially known as Jaipur International Airport, is the primary airport serving the capital city of Rajasthan, India. Originally established in 1948 as a domestic airport, it was upgraded to international status in 2005 to accommodate growing tourism and trade. The airport reflects Jaipur’s rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional Rajasthani architecture in its terminal design.

SpiceJet

SpiceJet is an Indian low-cost airline founded in 2005, headquartered in Gurgaon. Initially launched as an air taxi provider, it transitioned into a budget airline and has since grown to become one of India’s leading carriers, known for its affordable domestic and short-haul international flights. The airline has played a key role in making air travel more accessible in India, though it has faced financial challenges over the years.

Condor aircraft

The **Condor aircraft**, officially known as the **Focke-Wulf Fw 200 Condor**, was a German long-range reconnaissance and bomber aircraft used during World War II. Initially designed as a civilian airliner in the 1930s, it was later adapted for military use by the Luftwaffe, where it gained notoriety for disrupting Allied shipping in the Atlantic. Its versatility and range made it a significant threat early in the war, though it became vulnerable to improved Allied fighters and anti-aircraft defenses.

IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA)

The **IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA)** is a globally recognized and standardized evaluation system designed to assess the operational management and control systems of airlines. Established in 2003 by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), IOSA helps improve aviation safety by ensuring airlines comply with international safety standards. Participation is mandatory for IATA member airlines and has become a benchmark for safety in the aviation industry.

mobile unit

A **mobile unit** typically refers to a vehicle or portable facility designed to provide services on the go, such as medical care, libraries, or disaster relief. Historically, mobile units gained prominence during wartime (e.g., WWII field hospitals) and later expanded into public health, education, and outreach programs. Today, they play a vital role in reaching underserved communities with flexible, efficient solutions.

emergency protocols

«Emergency protocols» refer to established procedures designed to respond to crises, such as natural disasters, medical emergencies, or security threats. These protocols are developed based on historical incidents, risk assessments, and legal requirements to ensure safety and minimize harm. They are commonly used in workplaces, public spaces, and cultural sites to protect people and preserve critical infrastructure.

designated runway

A **designated runway** is a clearly marked and officially approved strip of land or surface on an airport where aircraft take off and land. These runways are constructed with specific materials like asphalt or concrete and are designed to handle the weight and speed of aircraft, ensuring safe operations. Their history dates back to the early 20th century with the rise of aviation, evolving from simple grass fields to modern, precision-engineered runways with advanced navigation aids.