Monsoon downpour floods city as Air India A320 veers off runway at Mumbai Airport

Mumbai, July 21, 2025 – Mumbai remains under an IMD orange alert as the city continues to receive heavy rainfall. The downpour has led to widespread waterlogging, delayed trains, and disrupted traffic across major routes. In a separate incident, an Air India Airbus A320 (Flight AI-2744) from Kochi to Mumbai veered off the main runway while landing amid intense rain. Fortunately, all passengers and crew disembarked safely, although three tyres burst and minor runway and aircraft damage was reported.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department, over 100 mm of rainfall was recorded overnight. Low-lying areas, including the Andheri subway and several arterial roads, were heavily inundated.The IMD has forecast continued heavy showers and lightning through Tuesday, advising residents and commuters to remain cautious. Authorities have shut subway access in waterlogged zones and shifted flight operations to the secondary runway at Mumbai’s airport.

Airline advisories from IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa highlight expected delays due to poor visibility and water on runways. Mumbai’s transport department reports local train delays reaching up to 25 minutes across Harbour and Central lines. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation says average rainfall reached nearly 50 mm in the western suburbs, impacting traffic on both Eastern and Western Express Highways.

At approximately 9:27 AM, Flight AI‑2744 touched down on Runway 09/27 amid downpour. It skidded off the paved path, burst three tyres, and collided with soft ground before returning to a taxiway and gate safely. Emergency crews responded immediately, and the airport activated its secondary runway 14/32 to maintain uninterrupted operations . DGCA officials are investigating whether reduced friction or operational decisions contributed. Air India grounded the Airbus for inspections, confirming the aircraft sustained tyre blowouts and possible engine cowling damage but caused no injuries.

The dual challenges of monsoon floods and aviation disruption highlight the pressure on Mumbai’s infrastructure during peak monsoon season. With the orange alert set to remain, officials warn of more flooding. Emergency services and local authorities are on high alert to manage commuter safety and uphold transport flow

Sources