An IndiGo flight from Kolkata to Hyderabad narrowly avoided a major accident after suffering a bird strike mid-air on Tuesday. The aircraft sustained damage after colliding with a flock of birds shortly before landing. However, swift action by the pilot ensured the safety of all 118 passengers on board.
According to reports, the flight had departed from Kolkata airport and was heading to Shamshabad airport in Hyderabad when the incident occurred near its destination. Recognising the potential risk posed by the bird strike, the pilot immediately alerted Air Traffic Control and opted for an emergency landing.
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The aircraft was safely brought down at Shamshabad airport. All passengers and crew members were unharmed. Later, the aircraft was taken out of service and handed over to engineers, following standard protocol, to assess possible damage to the engine or other critical components, according to airport sources.
Aviation experts note that bird strikes, particularly during take-off or landing, can pose serious risks to aircraft engines and nose sections. However, the timely decision-making and skill of the pilot helped avert a major mishap in this case.
A similar incident had occurred last month, when another IndiGo flight operating between Mumbai and Dehradun experienced a bird strike.
