Lightning Strikes IndiGo Flight at 17,000 Feet, Emergency Landing in Lucknow; 104 Passengers Safe

Lucknow: A major mid-air scare was averted after an IndiGo flight travelling from Patna to Lucknow was struck by lightning amid bad weather on Thursday. The aircraft was flying at an altitude of approximately 17,000 feet when the lightning strike damaged its nose section.

Thanks to the pilot’s quick response and presence of mind, the aircraft was safely landed at Lucknow Airport, and all 104 passengers on board were safely evacuated. No injuries were reported.

Lightning Strike at 17,000 Feet
IndiGo flight 6E 925 took off from Patna Airport at around 3:10 PM and was scheduled to reach Lucknow at 4:20 PM. However, after the aircraft was struck by lightning during the flight, the pilot decided to land at Lucknow as a precaution.

The aircraft landed safely at approximately 4:05 PM, around 15 minutes ahead of its scheduled arrival time. The lightning strike reportedly damaged the aircraft’s nose, but the pilot successfully managed the situation and brought the plane safely to the ground.

104 Passengers Safely Disembark
After landing at Lucknow Airport, all 104 passengers were safely deboarded. There were no reports of injuries following the incident.

The aircraft was subsequently grounded for a detailed technical inspection. A team of engineers began examining the plane to assess the extent of the damage caused by the lightning strike.

Aircraft’s Next Flight to Ahmedabad Cancelled
The same aircraft was scheduled to operate IndiGo flight 6E 6968 from Lucknow to Ahmedabad after arriving from Patna.

However, because of the damage sustained during the lightning strike, IndiGo arranged another aircraft for passengers travelling to Ahmedabad. The replacement flight departed at approximately 6:22 PM, allowing passengers to continue their journey without further delay.

Pilot’s Quick Response Prevents Major Mishap
The incident highlights the importance of the pilot’s quick decision-making during adverse weather conditions. Despite being struck by lightning at around 17,000 feet, the aircraft remained under control and was brought safely to Lucknow Airport.

The aircraft involved in the incident remains grounded at Lucknow, where engineers are carrying out a thorough technical inspection.

Fortunately, what could have turned into a major mid-air emergency ended without any casualties or injuries, with all 104 passengers reaching the ground safely.