AI Express plane mishap due to pilot argument

An Air India Express aeroplane that slammed into an open drain in September 2017 ended up in that situation because of an argument between the pilot and his female co-pilot, who was 30 years younger than him. The plane was returning to Kochi from Abu Dhabi.

The argument took place between the pilots on Air India Express flight IX 452 and the resulting accident left several passengers injured and the aeroplane seriously damaged, according to a Hindustan Times report.

Aviation authorities have asked Air India Express to ensure that the pilots who fly together do not have a significant difference in ages before assigning them to a flight.

According to the report on the accident, the co-pilot in question told her senior that the runway markings were not visible, asked him to make a slow approach and insisted on a "follow-me vehicle". Her request went unheeded and the senior pilot then caused the plane to land in the drain and get stuck.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau said that both pilots were flying together for the first time. The bureau has recommended that Air India Express issue a circular related to crew coordination.