An Agartala-Kolkata bound IndiGo flight (7203) narrowly escaped a major mishap on Tuesday, after a bird struck the aircraft’s wing shortly after takeoff. The flight took off from Agartala Airport at 12:40 PM, and within 20 minutes, the bird hit damaged five blades of the plane’s engine.
Following the incident, the pilot immediately initiated emergency procedures and safely returned to Agartala Airport, landing the aircraft at 1:50 PM. Sources said several passengers panicked during the mid-air emergency, with a few reportedly falling ill due to fear.
The damaged aircraft remains grounded at the airport, while over 100 stranded passengers await further arrangements. As of now, IndiGo Airlines has not announced any steps to provide an alternative flight or assistance for the affected passengers.
Authorities are investigating the incident, which once again raises concerns over bird strike safety measures at regional airports.