Right Internal Jugular Vein (IJV) is the commonest approach for central venous cannulation in patients undergoing major abdominal surgeries. Though highly useful in managing these high risk patients, it can be associated with vascular, pulmonary and cardiac complications,along with catheter misplacement an guide wire related problems. Though anatomical variations and use of blind technique can contribute to these, operator skill and routine use of ultrasound guided approach can prevent many of these catastrophes. We report a case of unexpected haemothorax following an unsuccessful attempt of right IJV cannulation using landmark technique, which was detected and managed in time, which saved the life of the patient.