Vulture hits IndiGo aircraft mid-air, forces emergency landing in Ranchi

Ranchi: An IndiGo flight travelling from Patna to Ranchi was forced to make an emergency landing on Monday after being hit by a bird mid-air, officials confirmed. The incident occurred around 1:14 PM and involved 175 passengers on board. Fortunately, all passengers are safe.

Hit by a vulture at 4,000 feet

According to officials at Birsa Munda Airport, the aircraft was flying at an altitude of 3,000 to 4,000 feet when it was struck by a vulture approximately 10 to 12 nautical miles from Ranchi. The bird strike caused damage to the aircraft, prompting the pilot to request an emergency landing.

Airport Director R R Maurya told, “The IndiGo flight was hit by a bird while approaching Ranchi. The pilot took immediate action and landed the aircraft safely.”

Damage assessment underway

Following the emergency landing, engineers began inspecting the aircraft to assess the extent of the damage.

“The plane has a visible dent due to the impact. Our technical team is currently evaluating the situation,” added Maurya.

All passengers deboarded safely, and no injuries were reported. 

PTI inputs