Kochi (Kerala), 17 December
An Air India Express flight flying from Cochin International Airport to Bahrain was safely taken off shortly after takeoff after a tire defect was detected today. About 100 passengers were on board the plane. A source said that the problem was discovered soon after the plane took off. As a precaution, the plane was directed to land back at the Cochin airport to ensure the safety of the passengers. Air India Express flight IX 471, which took off at 10.45 am, landed safely at the airport at 12.35 pm, an airport spokesperson said. He said that the full emergency announced at the airport was withdrawn later to ensure the safe landing of the plane. -News-Patiala
