A SpiceJet flight SG121 operating from Delhi to Leh returned to Indira Gandhi International Airport shortly after takeoff following an engine-related technical alert. Approximately 150 passengers were on board and all were reported safe.
Engine-Related Technical Alert After Takeoff
The flight departed from Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and took off normally. Minutes after departure, the crew received a technical alert in the cockpit related to one of the engines. In accordance with established aviation protocols, the pilots assessed the situation and decided to return to Delhi as a precautionary measure.
Flights to Leh, which is a high-altitude airport, require full technical capability. The pilots opted not to take any risk and prioritised passenger safety by initiating an immediate return.
Emergency Declared at Delhi Airport
After being informed of the aircraft’s return, authorities at Delhi airport declared an emergency as a precautionary step. The runway was given priority and fire brigade and medical teams were placed on alert.
The aircraft landed safely on the runway. All passengers were deboarded safely, and no injuries were reported.
Passenger Arrangements and Technical Inspection
Approximately 150 passengers were on board the flight. Following the landing, they were escorted safely to the terminal. The airline initiated the process of making alternative arrangements.
The airline has not yet issued an official statement detailing the exact cause of the engine issue. A detailed inspection of the aircraft by the maintenance team is expected. Under aviation regulations, the aircraft will be cleared for operations only after the technical checks are completed.
Background of Chatra Air Ambulance Crash
The emergency landing of the SpiceJet flight comes shortly after an air ambulance crash in Jharkhand’s Chatra district in which seven people lost their lives.
The air ambulance, operating from Ranchi to Delhi, took off at 7:11 pm. Approximately 23 minutes into the flight, at 7:34 pm, contact with air traffic control was lost. The aircraft was later found crashed near the Simaria block in Chatra district.
All seven people on board the aircraft died in the crash. Rescue teams recovered all the bodies on Tuesday.
