A Delhi-to-Srinagar IndiGo flight carrying over 200 passengers encountered intense mid-air turbulence on Wednesday after flying into a sudden hailstorm, which left part of the aircraft's nose visibly damaged.
IndiGo flight 6E2142 was en route to Srinagar with 227 passengers when it was caught off guard by rough weather. A video from inside the aircraft, now circulating widely on social media, captures the panic that unfolded on board — passengers, including children, are heard screaming as the plane shudders and lightning illuminates the skies outside.
According to officials, the flight crew promptly alerted Srinagar’s Air Traffic Control by declaring an emergency. Despite the severe turbulence, the aircraft managed to land safely around 6:30 p.m.
In a statement, IndiGo confirmed that the aircraft encountered hail during the journey and assured that all flight operations were carried out following safety protocols. "Our team on the ground ensured passengers were cared for upon landing. The aircraft will be cleared for service after inspection and any necessary repairs," the airline said.
While the airline did not detail the extent of the damage, images shared online revealed a damaged section on the nose cone of the aircraft.
The hazardous mid-air conditions coincided with a powerful hailstorm that swept through Delhi-NCR in the evening. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported wind speeds of up to 79 kmph and heavy rainfall in several parts of the region. Between 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., Delhi’s Safdarjung station recorded 12.2 mm of rainfall.
The sudden shift in weather disrupted air traffic at Delhi airport, and Metro services on the Yellow Line experienced delays. The strong winds also caused trees to topple and damaged infrastructure in parts of Noida.
According to the IMD, the system was influenced by a cyclonic circulation over Haryana and adjoining regions, with moisture being drawn in from both the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal.
Earlier in the day, Delhi faced sweltering conditions, with the “feels-like” temperature touching a scorching 50.2°C due to high humidity. The actual maximum temperature recorded was 40.7°C, slightly above the seasonal average, with humidity levels ranging between 34% and 64%.
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