DGCA starts probe into accident involving Air India plane

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) today launched an investigation into an incident in which a ground handler was injured when the wheels of an Air India plane crushed his legs while preparing for take-off at the IGI airport here.

As part of the probe, DGCA summoned the pilots and engineers of the aircraft, bound for Mumbai, and questioned them, official sources said.

They said any further action would be taken only after the report of the preliminary inquiry was received.

Air India has also ordered a separate inquiry into the incident which occurred late last night when the nose-wheel of the Airbus A-321 crushed ground handler Ram Kishore's legs as it was being pushed back while preparing for take-off.

45-year-old Kishore was rushed to the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre in Vasant Kunj area of South Delhi, where his condition is reported to be serious.

Following the accident, the aircraft was temporarily withdrawn from service, airport sources said.

Fifty-three passengers on-board the IC-602 flight were flown to Mumbai later in another aircraft. The mishap had taken place around 2130 hrs when the flight was given the all clear signal for take off.