IAF aircraft failure disrupts Pune Airport for 11 hours, 32 flights affected

At least 32 incoming flights were impacted, along with a similar number of departures

Flight operations at Pune Airport resumed after an 11-hour disruption caused by an Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter aircraft incident late Friday night.

Pune Airport Director Santosh Dhoke said, "A fighter aircraft [Su-30 MKI] experienced an undercarriage failure after a hard landing around 10.25 pm, resulting in runway blockage. The aircraft remained positioned in the middle of the runway, and efforts were undertaken to move it to the taxiway using heavy machinery."

The aircraft halted in the middle of the runway, forcing authorities to suspend all civilian flight operations. Both pilots are reported safe. A NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) was initially issued for runway closure until 5.30 am and later extended to 9 am to facilitate safe removal of the aircraft, inspection, and restoration work. The aircraft was cleared from the runway at 5.45 am.

In total, at least 32 incoming flights were diverted or cancelled, while a similar number of departures were also affected. Operations resumed in phases, with the first arrival - a Fly91 flight from Mopa - landing at 8.58 am, followed by the first departure, SpiceJet flight SG 937 to Delhi, at 9.17 am.