Air India Express flight aborts takeoff after dog spotted on Pune runway

An Air India Express flight narrowly avoided a potential disaster on Friday when its pilot made a split-second decision to abort takeoff after spotting a stray dog on the Pune Airport runway. The aircraft, carrying more than 120 passengers heading to Jaipur, was at full throttle during its takeoff run when the pilot detected the animal and immediately applied emergency brakes.

The sudden deceleration caused significant jolting throughout the cabin, leaving passengers frightened and disoriented. Flight operations at Pune Airport were temporarily disrupted as the aircraft was brought to a complete halt on the runway. The Air India Express crew immediately informed airport authorities about the animal hazard. Ground personnel then secured the area and removed the stray dog from the runway.

Following the aborted takeoff, aviation safety protocols required the aircraft to undergo a thorough technical inspection before attempting another departure. Engineers conducted detailed checks on the aircraft's braking systems, engines, and other critical components to ensure no damage had occurred during the emergency stop. This mandatory inspection extended the delay significantly, with passengers waiting approximately 100 minutes before the flight finally received clearance to take off again.

The incident underscores persistent challenges with wildlife management at Pune Airport. Stray animals—particularly dogs and birds—regularly breach airport boundaries and access runways, posing serious risks to flight safety. These intrusions can lead to accidents, engine damage, or collisions if not detected in time. Airport authorities have faced criticism for inadequate perimeter fencing and insufficient wildlife control measures.

While no injuries were reported during Friday's incident, safety experts emphasise the gravity of such situations. A takeoff abort at high speed can cause injuries to passengers and crew through rapid deceleration. The Air India Express incident reinforces the critical importance of pilot vigilance and quick decision-making in emergency scenarios. Industry observers have called for Pune Airport authorities to implement stronger wildlife deterrent systems, including improved fencing, motion-activated lights, and regular perimeter patrols to prevent such incidents in future.