A brief scare unfolded at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport on Tuesday after smoke was detected inside a Chennai-bound IndiGo aircraft moments before takeoff, prompting an emergency evacuation of passengers and crew.
According to the airline, the incident involved flight 6E 6017 operating from Bengaluru to Chennai. Smoke was noticed while the aircraft was taxiing towards the runway for departure on May 26, following which the crew initiated immediate safety procedures.
Passengers evacuated safely
According to Times Now, IndiGo said all passengers and crew members were evacuated safely and shifted back to the terminal building. Airport and emergency response authorities were informed immediately after the smoke was detected.
The airline stated that its ground teams were assisting passengers and ensuring their well-being after the evacuation. No injuries were reported in the incident.
Visuals from the airport showed passengers being guided away from the aircraft as emergency personnel responded to the situation.
Airline arranges alternate aircraft
According to Times Now, following the incident, IndiGo arranged an alternate aircraft to operate the Bengaluru-Chennai service. The airline said the replacement flight would depart shortly after necessary arrangements were completed.
Passengers waiting at the airport were also provided refreshments to minimise the inconvenience caused by the delay.
In its official statement, IndiGo reiterated that passenger and crew safety remained its highest priority and said standard operating procedures were followed immediately after the smoke was noticed.
Investigation likely into cause of smoke
According to Times Now, while the airline did not immediately specify the source or cause of the smoke, aviation authorities are expected to examine the aircraft and review technical details related to the incident.
Smoke detection incidents during taxiing are treated seriously under aviation safety protocols, often triggering precautionary evacuations even when there is no visible fire.
The development briefly disrupted operations around the departure area, though airport authorities did not report any major impact on overall flight movement at Bengaluru airport.
(This is a developing story. Please stay tuned with us for the latest updates.}
