World · India Bureau
IndiGo flight struck by lightning makes safe emergency landing in Lucknow
An IndiGo aircraft en route from Patna to Lucknow suffered nose damage after being struck by lightning during flight. All 104 passengers and crew members on board were reported safe following the emergency landing.
LSN India ·
An IndiGo flight operating from Patna to Lucknow made an unscheduled landing at Lucknow airport after encountering a lightning strike at 17,000 feet on Tuesday. The aircraft sustained damage to its nose section following the strike, prompting the flight crew to initiate emergency procedures.
The flight, carrying 104 passengers and crew members, was diverted to Lucknow airport where it landed safely. Airport authorities and emergency response teams were on standby to assist the aircraft, though no injuries were reported among those on board.
Lightning strikes on aircraft, while rare, are not uncommon during monsoon seasons in South Asia. Commercial aircraft are equipped with lightning protection systems and grounding mechanisms designed to safely dissipate electrical charges. Investigations into the incident are expected to follow standard aviation safety protocols.
IndiGo, India's largest airline by fleet size and passenger numbers, operates thousands of flights across the country daily. The airline has maintained a strong safety record over its operational history.