A major air disaster was narrowly averted at Indonesia’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang on June 28, 2025, when a Batik Air Boeing 737 (Flight PK-LDJ) encountered extreme weather conditions during landing. Heavy rain and a sudden strong crosswind caused the aircraft to tilt sharply to the right, with one wingtip nearly scraping the runway.
Thanks to the pilot’s expert control, the plane stabilized and landed safely without damage or injuries. Officials confirmed that all safety protocols were followed, and the aircraft was cleared for further operations after inspection.
Pilot’s Skill and Calm Prevent Catastrophe
The terrifying incident, captured on video by bystanders and widely shared on social media, shows the plane struggling against violent crosswinds and torrential rain as it approaches the runway. The aircraft momentarily lost balance, tilting dangerously with its right engine almost touching the ground, sparking panic among passengers and onlookers.
Danang Mandala Prihantoro, Corporate Communications Strategic Officer of Batik Air, stated, “The pilot controlled the plane skillfully despite the sudden gusts, ensuring a safe landing.” A team of engineers inspected the aircraft post-landing and confirmed no damage. The incident has drawn attention to the challenges pilots face amid increasingly volatile weather patterns.
Context: Aviation Safety Amid Increasing Extreme Weather
Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, one of Southeast Asia’s busiest, regularly contends with tropical storms and heavy monsoon rains. Meteorologists attribute the sudden gusts to a strong storm system over Greater Jakarta, warning that such extreme weather events are becoming more frequent due to climate change.
Aviation experts stress the importance of enhanced pilot training for crosswind landings and improved wind-shear detection systems at airports to mitigate risks. This near-miss comes just weeks after the tragic Air India Boeing 737 crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed 241 lives, underscoring the critical need for vigilance and safety upgrades in aviation.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian applauds the professionalism and quick reflexes of the Batik Air flight crew, whose calm under pressure prevented a potential disaster. This incident highlights the unpredictable challenges posed by nature and the vital role of preparedness and training in safeguarding lives.
