What happened
On the night of December 5, 2024, an Air India A320-251N, registration VT-EXT, was prepared for a scheduled flight from Manohar International Airport (VOGA) to Hyderabad (VOHS). After receiving taxi instructions to proceed via taxiway intersections to the holding point for Runway 28, the flight crew mistakenly lined up on Taxiway 'A', which runs parallel to the intended runway.
Upon receiving takeoff clearance, the crew began the takeoff roll on the taxiway. The Tower Controller, noticing that the aircraft appeared larger than usual on the radar/visual, realized the plane was not on the runway and immediately issued a cancellation of the takeoff clearance. The crew responded promptly, initiating a high-speed rejected takeoff. The aircraft decelerated from 124 knots and came to a complete stop at the junction of Taxiway 'A' and 'W'. There were no injuries to the 158 persons on board and no damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
An investigation by AAIB India examined the cockpit voice recorder, flight data, and air traffic control transcripts. The inquiry established that while the controller had issued the correct taxi and takeoff instructions—specifically mentioning Runway 28 multiple times—the crew failed to follow the prescribed route. The investigation found that the crew began executing takeoff checklists while still on Taxiway 'E', a location that does not lead to the runway.
Investigators also noted that the airport lacks an Advanced Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (A-SMGCS), which could have aided the controller's situational awareness. Furthermore, the investigation highlighted a significant disparity in experience between the Pilot in Command and the First Officer.