An IndiGo flight operating from Guwahati to Bengaluru encountered a landing-related incident at Kempegowda International Airport on Sunday, prompting the aircraft to be taken out of service for inspection.
Flight 6E 6542, operated by an Airbus A321neo, experienced an abnormal runway contact while attempting to land amid gusty weather conditions, according to IndiGo.
According to the NDTV sources, the aircraft did not complete its first landing attempt and subsequently landed safely on the second approach. All passengers and crew members disembarked safely.
Also Read | Layoffs Are Rising In Tech, But These Skills Are Helping People Unlock Better Pay
IndiGo said the aircraft has been grounded as part of standard maintenance procedures. The airline has also informed the relevant authorities, with the aircraft expected to return to service after inspections and necessary clearances.
The incident has also triggered regulatory scrutiny. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has launched an investigation, with sources citing concerns over repeated tail-strike incidents involving IndiGo's A321 aircraft.
The latest incident comes roughly a month after another IndiGo A321 experienced a tail strike during an approach to Gorakhpur.
That aircraft, operating flight 6E 2381 from Delhi, performed a go-around after the crew discontinued its initial landing approach. A subsequent inspection found minor scratches near the Auxiliary Power Unit inlet in the aircraft's tail section.
The aircraft was then grounded for detailed inspection and repairs.
Tail strikes can occur when the rear section of an aircraft makes contact with the runway during take-off or landing. Airlines typically subject affected aircraft to detailed inspections before allowing them to resume operations.
IndiGo said the latest incident occurred during gusty conditions and confirmed that safety procedures were followed. The DGCA's investigation will examine the circumstances surrounding the runway contact and determine whether any further action is required.
Essential Business Intelligence, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice, Daily Fuel, Gold and Silver Prices and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.
