A routine domestic flight from Delhi to Srinagar turned into a harrowing ordeal on Wednesday when IndiGo Flight 6E-2142 encountered an unexpected hailstorm and severe turbulence, prompting a rapid descent and a denied request for emergency airspace clearance.
The IndiGo A321neo aircraft, carrying over 220 passengers including members of Parliament, found itself in dire straits while cruising at 36,000 feet near Pathankot, close to the India-Pakistan border. As the flight approached adverse weather conditions, the crew sought permission to deviate left towards Pakistani airspace from Northern Control, a request that was promptly denied. Subsequently, direct appeals to Lahore Air Traffic Control were also turned down.
With limited options and the storm rapidly closing in, the pilots initially contemplated a return to Delhi. However, faced with imminent weather penetration, they decided to forge ahead towards Srinagar. Entering the thunderstorm, the aircraft was pelted by hail and buffeted by violent turbulence. Critical flight systems began to malfunction, including an Angle Of Attack (AOA) fault and autopilot disengagement, forcing the crew to take full manual control.
Amidst multiple stall warnings and escalating speed indicators, the aircraft descended at an alarming rate of 8,500 feet per minute, nearing its operational limits. The pilots skillfully navigated the unstable conditions, maintaining control until they emerged from the storm system.
Following stabilization, the crew completed emergency procedures and declared a "PAN PAN" urgency signal. Guided by Srinagar Air Traffic Control, the aircraft landed safely despite significant damage to its nose cone from hail impact. Post-landing inspections confirmed the need for thorough assessment and maintenance.
Passengers, including a delegation from Trinamool Congress MPs, described the experience as terrifying. Videos circulated on social media captured scenes of distress inside the cabin, with prayers and visible panic among travelers. Despite the ordeal, there were no injuries reported among passengers or crew.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) launched a formal investigation into the incident, focusing on flight data and cockpit voice recordings. IndiGo assured the public that the aircraft would undergo rigorous inspections before resuming operations.
The incident underscores the challenges and risks faced in aviation, particularly during adverse weather conditions. It highlights the critical role of skilled pilots and robust emergency protocols in ensuring passenger safety. As investigations proceed, stakeholders await further findings to enhance safety measures in future flights.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as more details emerge from the investigation into IndiGo Flight 6E-2142's turbulent journey to Srinagar.
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