Pilot Deviation Caused Runway Edge Light Damage at Chennai Airport, DGCA Finds

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) released its final report. The report details a runway edge light damage incident. This event occurred at Chennai International Airport in February 2025. The investigation concluded pilot deviation was the probable cause.

Incident Details

The incident involved a Star Air flight, SDG 8216. The flight was a scheduled service to Bengaluru. The pilot in command initiated the takeoff roll incorrectly. The aircraft deviated from the designated lead line on Taxiway K. Instead, the plane aligned with the edge line of Runway 07. This alignment resulted in the aircraft damaging seven runway edge lights.

Following the event, the aircraft continued its flight. It completed three additional sectors before the operator was notified. A subsequent inspection in Bengaluru found no abnormalities. This was reported on the main and nose landing gear.

Airport safety personnel later discovered the damage. A routine runway inspection reported the broken lights. This happened several hours after the Star Air takeoff. During this interim period, 45 other aircraft movements occurred. None of these flights reported any airfield abnormalities.

Regulator's Conclusion and Safety Recommendations

The DGCA's final investigation report cited the pilot's deviation as the primary factor. The pilot failed to follow the taxiway lead line markings. This led to the aircraft operating outside the safe runway area. Such runway excursion risks are a serious concern.

To prevent future occurrences, the DGCA issued safety recommendations.

• The regulator mandated Star Air provide appropriate training to the crew.
• The airline must also ensure airport familiarisation training.
• This training must be given to all pilots before assigning them to a new airport.

Commercial Aviation Safety Impact

This incident highlights the critical importance of crew adherence to standard operating procedures. Even minor deviations can lead to significant infrastructure damage. Damaged runway lights can compromise safety for subsequent flights. This is especially true during low visibility operations. The DGCA's focus on airport familiarisation training reinforces Indian aviation regulation standards. It emphasizes the need for expertise in ground operations. Global bodies like the ICAO consistently stress the importance of runway safety programs. These programs aim to mitigate risks from pilot error or situational awareness lapses. Maintaining commercial aviation safety relies on strict procedural compliance. This compliance is essential for both pilots and ground crews.

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