Air travel is always the most secure means of transport, yet nature sometimes reminds us of its capricious rage. On 21 May 2025, passengers on IndiGo Flight 6E2142 from Delhi to Srinagar had a nightmare experience when their flight got trapped in a violent hailstorm that generated extreme turbulence and created panic among flyers.
The Unexpected Chaos
The plane, with more than 220 passengers on board, including a group of Trinamool Congress MPs, faced severe turbulence off Pathankot because of a sudden hailstorm. Confronted by worsening weather conditions, the pilots first requested clearance to change course, but were refused by Indian Air Force Northern Control and Lahore ATC. With no option left, they had to fly through the storm manually, as the autopilot system was shut down because of the turbulence.
Passengers in Panic
While the plane violently shook, passengers were catapulted into a state of panic and distress. Screams, prayers, and luggage spilling out of overhead bins were recorded by videos going viral on social media. Passengers labeled it a near-death experience, with one claiming, "I thought my life was over. People were screaming, praying, and panicking."
The Pilot's Heroic Maneuver
In the midst of chaos, the pilots of IndiGo showed incredible prowess and calm. They issued a situation of urgency (PAN PAN) and asked for radar vectors so that they could safely land. The plane descended at an incredible rate of 8,500 feet per minute, prompting several warnings, including stall warnings and speed faults. But the pilots were able to level out the plane and land safely at Srinagar Airport at 6:30 PM, having saved every passenger on board.
Aftermath and Investigation
Upon arrival, it was found that the aircraft's nose cone (radome) had been damaged because of the hailstorm. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) carried out an investigation into the event, considering weather conditions, flight route, and operational choices. IndiGo Airlines informed passengers that all safety measures were in place, and the aircraft would be checked and maintained as needed before resuming service.
A Testimony to Aviation Excellence
This accident was certainly frightening, yet also underscored the remarkable proficiency and tenacity of flight crew members and pilots. Their success in flying through adverse conditions and landing safely is a testament to the stringent training and readiness of those in the aviation field.
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