Rajasthan CM’s Jet Lands on Wrong Runway in Phalodi
On July 31, a chartered Dassault Falcon 2000 carrying Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma mistakenly landed at a civilian airstrip in Phalodi instead of the Indian Air Force (IAF) base. After realizing the error, the pilots took off again and safely landed at the IAF station located about 5 km away.
Pilot Error Leads to Investigation
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a formal investigation into the incident. Both pilots have been grounded pending the outcome of the probe and are temporarily taken off flying duty.
Similar Runways Cause Confusion
Preliminary reports suggest the pilots may have misidentified the runway due to the close proximity and similar layout of the civil and military airstrips. Sources indicate that briefing on the two distinct landing sites was inadequate, contributing to the confusion.
Safety Concerns Over Wrong Landing
Critics warn the wrong landing posed risks, including the civil airstrip’s ability to handle a heavy aircraft like the Falcon 2000. The incident also raised questions about civil-military coordination in shared airspace zones.
CM Unharmed, No Operational Delay
CM Sharma disembarked at the correct airbase before traveling onward to Jaipur by the same aircraft. The flight later returned to Delhi on the same night, and no further disruption was reported.
Aviation Experts Call for Better Protocols
Analysts say this case highlights the need for improved pre-flight planning and clearer communication between charter operators and aviation regulators. They recommend stricter briefing standards and coordination among civil and military aviation teams in areas with overlapping infrastructure.
