THIS is the heart-stopping moment two passenger planes were moments away from smashing into each other at a major airport. Two aircraft, run by Air India and IndiGo, were involved in a nail-biting near-miss on the runway at Mumbai Airport, in India, on Saturday.  The two planes were within seconds of smashing into each other on the runway Not known, clear with picture deskOne aircraft landed just as another took off[/caption] Shocking footage revealed how an Air India plane took off within seconds of an IndiGo plane landing.  After the horrific scene unfolded, the country’s aviation watchdog confirmed a probe has been launched. Officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation stated they suspended the air traffic controller who was on duty at the time. A spokesperson said: “We are conducting a probe and have already de-rostered the ATCO involved in the incident.” Meanwhile, an Air India spokesperson told local media: “AI657 from Mumbai to Trivandrum was on take-off roll on June 8.  “The Air India aircraft was cleared by Air Traffic Control to enter the runway and subsequently cleared for take-off.  “The Air India aircraft continued with the take-off roll in accordance with laid down procedures.  “An investigation has been initiated by the authorities to find out more about the clearance given to the airlines.” An IndiGo spokesperson added: “On June 8, IndiGo flight 6E 6053 from Indore was given landing clearance by ATC at Mumbai Airport.  “The Pilot in command continued the approach and landing and followed ATC instructions.” The single runway at the airport processes approximately 46 departures and arrivals per hour. Their air traffic controllers can authorise up to two departures and two arrivals within three minutes. This time can be reduced if optimum visibility permits it. Not known, clear with picture deskThe country’s aviation watchdog confirmed a probe has been launched[/caption]

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