An IndiGo flight travelling from Guwahati to Bengaluru experienced a tail strike during its second landing attempt at Kempegowda International Airport, aviation sources said on Sunday.
Flight 6E 6542 had to perform a go-around during its first approach to Bengaluru airport. On the subsequent approach, the aircraft’s tail made contact with the runway while landing.
The aircraft successfully completed the landing on its second attempt, and all passengers and crew members were able to leave the aircraft safely.
AIRCRAFT GROUNDED FOR MAINTENANCE INSPECTION
IndiGo said in a statement that the aircraft experienced an “Abnormal Runway Contact” while landing in gusty weather conditions at Kempegowda International Airport.
The airline said the aircraft has been grounded and is currently undergoing maintenance inspections. It will return to service only after receiving the required clearances.
“Following standard operating procedures, all relevant authorities were informed and the aircraft is undergoing maintenance checks,” IndiGo said, reiterating that passenger and crew safety remained its highest priority.
Sources said an alternative aircraft was deployed for the Bengaluru-Coimbatore sector to prevent disruption to scheduled operations. They added that the incident did not affect airport operations.
DGCA ORDERS INVESTIGATION
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated an investigation into the tail-strike involving IndiGo flight 6E 6542 at Bengaluru airport, sources confirmed.
Investigators are examining the circumstances that led to the aircraft’s tail making contact with the runway. IndiGo has said the incident occurred amid gusty weather conditions.
