13 years since Mangaluru air crash: A tragic day in aviation history

PTI, May 22, 2023, 10:37 AM IST

Mangaluru: Thirteen years ago, on a fateful day in May, the city of Mangaluru, was struck by a tragedy that would leave a lasting impact on the nation.

A tragedy that shook the aviation industry and left a lasting impact on the community.

On May 22, 2010, an aircraft operated by Air India Express crashed while attempting to land at Mangaluru International Airport, claiming the lives of 158 people on board.

The ill-fated flight, carrying 160 passengers and six crew members, was en route from Dubai, United Arab Emirates to Mangaluru. As the aircraft approached the runway, it overshot its landing and plunged down a steep hill, bursting into flames upon impact.

The accident sent shockwaves through the nation, as families, friends, and the local community mourned the loss of their loved ones. Rescue teams, including firefighters, police personnel, and medical professionals, rushed to the scene, but the intense fire and difficult terrain made their efforts incredibly challenging.

In the aftermath of the crash, investigations were launched to determine the cause of the tragedy. The inquiry revealed that several factors contributed to the accident, including. The airport’s tabletop runway design, which has a steep gradient at the end, also played a significant role in the disaster.

Today, on this solemn occasion, families and friends of the victims gather to pay their respects at the memorial erected near the crash site. The memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the precious lives lost and the ongoing need for aviation safety improvements.

The district administration offered tribute to the victims on Monday. Deputy commissioner M R Ravikumar was present.

In the midst of their grief, the affected families found solace in the support they received from the community and the nation at large.

As we remember the 13th anniversary of the Mangaluru air crash, we honor the memory of those who perished in the tragedy. Their loss continues to inspire efforts to make air travel safer and ensure that such a devastating event is never repeated.