An Air India flight operating from Delhi to Amritsar briefly entered Pakistani airspace during its approach to Amritsar Airport, prompting an investigation by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The regulator has taken interim disciplinary action against both the operating crew and the concerned air traffic controller (ATC) for failing to report the incident.
The incident involved Air India flight AI479, operated by an Airbus A321, on June 22. According to the DGCA, the aircraft was instructed to hold during its approach because the runway at Amritsar was being inspected following a reported bird strike involving an earlier flight. While being radar-vectored, the aircraft briefly crossed into Pakistan's Lahore airspace. The situation was coordinated with Pakistan's air traffic control authorities, and the aircraft safely diverted back to Delhi before later completing its journey to Amritsar.
The aviation regulator said interim action has been taken against the Amritsar ATC officer and the flight crew because the airspace infringement was not reported as required under aviation regulations. Reports indicate that both the crew and the concerned ATC officer have been de-rostered pending the outcome of the investigation.
Air India confirmed that the aircraft had "marginally infringed" Pakistani airspace during the go-around manoeuvre. The airline said the matter has been reported to the DGCA and other regulatory authorities, and an internal investigation has also been initiated to determine the circumstances that led to the incident.
Officials stressed that passenger safety was never compromised and the aircraft landed safely without any injuries or damage. The incident comes at a time when Pakistani airspace remains closed to Indian airlines, making any unintended entry into its airspace a serious regulatory matter. The DGCA is expected to examine communication records, radar data and cockpit procedures before deciding whether further action is warranted.
