Bengaluru airport equipment mishap causes minor damage to Akasa aircraft
Bengaluru witnessed a minor but significant aviation incident early Wednesday when a parked Akasa Air aircraft sustained damage after being struck by ground-handling equipment at Kempegowda International Airport. The mishap, which occurred around 4 am at stand 26, raised fresh questions about airside safety protocols and operational oversight at one of India’s busiest airports.
According to officials, the incident unfolded when a Ground Power Unit (GPU), connected to an electric baggage tug, became detached and rolled into the stationary aircraft. The GPU, a portable energy supply essential for powering aircraft systems when engines are off, impacted the aircraft’s fuselage. At the time, the plane was parked overnight, and no passengers or crew were present in the vicinity. Airport authorities confirmed that the damage was categorised as minor, and there was no disruption to passenger services or flight schedules. An official from the airport operator stated that the equipment belonged to a third-party ground-handling agency and that immediate steps were taken to secure the scene. “Safety procedures were initiated promptly, and the affected aircraft was moved for inspection,” the spokesperson noted.
Industry experts point out that while such incidents are relatively uncommon, they highlight the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols for ground operations. Aircraft parked at busy airports often share operational space with multiple service vehicles, from catering trucks to fuel bowsers, making precise coordination essential. Even low-speed impacts can cause costly structural damage and lead to operational delays if not addressed swiftly. Aviation analysts suggest that the growing traffic at Bengaluru airport, coupled with increasing dependence on outsourced ground-handling services, necessitates regular audits and equipment maintenance. The introduction of electric baggage tugs and GPUs is part of the aviation sector’s sustainability transition, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and noise pollution. However, operational discipline remains crucial to ensuring these green initiatives do not inadvertently compromise safety.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been notified of the incident, and an internal inquiry is underway to determine whether mechanical failure or human error was to blame. Airport safety teams are also expected to review current operational guidelines for ground-handling agencies, particularly regarding vehicle parking protocols and equipment attachment security. While this incident did not impact passenger movement, it serves as a reminder that aviation safety extends beyond flight operations. As India’s airports continue to modernise and embrace greener technologies, balancing environmental objectives with operational vigilance will be key to avoiding such occurrences in the future.
