A plane approaching Kochi’s Nedumbassery International Airport flew unusually low over a residential area, triggering powerful wake turbulence that ripped the roof off a house in Okkal, Perumbavoor.

The incident occurred on Thursday evening when an aircraft descending for landing at CIAL flew significantly below the normal glide path over Okkal Nambilli junction. The intense air pressure and wake turbulence caused about 120 roofing tiles on the house of Manikkyathan MV Joy to fly off and shatter.

Fortunately, the family was indoors at the time and escaped unhurt. Had anyone been outside, the outcome could have been far worse.

According to locals, this is not an isolated incident. Pandala Prasad, another resident of the area, said his roof has been damaged in similar incidents three times before. Residents claim they have previously complained to CIAL authorities but received no compensation or action.

Aviation experts point out that certain aircraft are flying below the mandated glide path standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization, violating safety norms over populated areas. The wake turbulence generated by aircraft at low altitude is strong enough to cause structural damage to buildings.

Angered by the repeated negligence, residents of Okkal Nambilli are now organizing a collective protest. They plan to form a people’s action council involving village authorities and local representatives, and submit a joint petition to CIAL management and the Ernakulam District Collector.

The residents are demanding that radar data from Air Traffic Control be examined to identify the specific airline responsible. They have warned of stronger protests, including runway blockades, if CIAL continues to ignore safety violations. There is also a growing demand for CIAL to ensure insurance coverage for homes in the affected zone.