Footage recorded at an airport in the Indian state of Gujarat and rapidly circulated on social media has become both a source of humour and a cause for serious concern regarding aviation safety. The video shows airport staff manually pushing a large passenger aircraft without the use of engine power or any towing vehicle.
Extraordinary Moment Caught on Camera: Plane Moved by Human Force
The viral video on social media captures several airport workers pushing a stationary passenger plane backwards on the tarmac. It has been confirmed that the footage was taken at an airport in the Gujarat region.
What Caused the Incident?
According to aviation experts, this highly unusual intervention may have been due to a combination of technical and infrastructural issues:
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The aircraft’s reverse thrust system may have been faulty.
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There may have been no pushback tug or similar towing equipment available.
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A lack of access to backup equipment at the time could have forced staff to rely on manual labour.
Officials have noted that the aircraft was likely empty, which would have helped minimise potential safety risks.
Passengers Respond with Humour
In the footage, some passengers witnessing the incident are seen smiling in astonishment, recording the moment on their phones and sharing it on social media. Several users responded with humorous remarks such as:
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“Only in India!”
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“A new generation of push technology has been developed!”
Violation of Aviation Regulations
Experts have emphasised that manually pushing an aircraft goes entirely against international aviation safety protocols. Under standard procedures, aircraft should only be moved:
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Using certified and approved towing vehicles,
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Under the supervision of trained and authorised ground personnel,
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With radio communication and clearance from ground control.
These regulations are crucial for both airport safety and operational efficiency.
Trending on Social Media: Humour Meets Concern
While the viral video has amused many online, it has also reignited discussions around infrastructural shortcomings, staff shortages, and breaches in safety protocols.
