Pune: In a remarkable display of composure and skill, Maitryee Shrikrishna Shitole, a co-pilot hailing from Daund, Pune, played a pivotal role in the safe landing of a Boeing aircraft following a mid-air hydraulic system failure.
The aircraft, which had taken off from Tiruchirappalli Airport for Sharjah, was carrying 140 passengers when the malfunction was detected at an altitude of 36,000 feet, leading to an emergency landing.
Maitreyee, originally from Kusgaon in Daund Taluka, was co-piloting the flight along with chief pilot Iqrom Rifadly Fahmi Zainal. Both pilots acted swiftly and skillfully, averting a potential disaster.
Due to the hydraulic failure, the aircraft had to circle in the sky for over two hours as fuel levels were safely reduced before the emergency landing.
The situation became tense as passengers onboard grew anxious, unsure of the aircraft's condition. Meanwhile, airport authorities prepared for the worst by deploying 20 ambulances, fire brigades, doctors, and police personnel at the runway.
Finally, at 8:15 PM, Maitreyee and her co-pilot successfully brought the plane to a safe landing, with no injuries reported. The incident not only showcased Maitreyee’s piloting expertise but also highlighted the crucial role she played in ensuring the safety of all 140 passengers.
Maitreyee, who has been with Air India for a year, remained calm throughout the ordeal, drawing from her training and experience to handle the emergency with confidence.
Her contributions have garnered widespread recognition, and both she and the chief pilot have been praised for their teamwork and professionalism during the critical situation.
