An Air India Express aircraft skidded off the runway at Kozhikode airport amid heavy rains today.

Air India Express’ latest statement says “Air India Express Flight No IX 1344 operated by B737 from Dubai to Kozhikode overshot runway at Kozhikode 1941 hours tonight. No fire reported at the time of landing.”

As per the statement, there were 174 passengers, ten infants, two pilots, four cabin crew onboard the aircraft. Around 16 people have lost their lives until now.

Currently, rescue operations are underway, and passengers are provided with all the medical needs.

Kerala chief minister, Pinarayi Vijayan has directed the police and fire force to take urgent action in the wake of the plane crash at Kozhikode airport (CCJ). He has instructed them to make arrangements for rescue and medical support. Minister A.C. Moideen will lead the rescue efforts.

India’s civil aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri expressed his concerns via social media. His tweet reads “Deeply anguished and distressed at the air accident in Kozhikode.”

“Relief teams from Air India and Airports Authority of India are being immediately dispatched from Delhi and Mumbai. All efforts being made to help passengers.”

A formal enquiry will be conducted by Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).

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