Panic Aboard Indigo Flight from Delhi to Srinagar After Severe Turbulence, Nose Cone Damaged
Srinagar, 21st May 2025: An Indigo Airlines flight (6E 2142) traveling from Delhi to Srinagar experienced intense turbulence on Wednesday evening, triggering panic among passengers and causing visible damage to the aircraft’s nose cone. The flight, carrying 227 passengers, made an emergency landing at Srinagar Airport. All passengers and crew members are reported to be safe.
The incident unfolded shortly before the scheduled landing, when the aircraft suddenly encountered severe turbulence. Passengers described a terrifying scene as the plane shook violently, overhead luggage fell, and people screamed in fear. “It felt like the aircraft was falling,” said one passenger, who recorded a video from inside the cabin during the chaos.
Indigo Airlines confirmed that the turbulence was caused by a hailstorm. However, the airline has not clarified how the nose cone — the front part of the aircraft — sustained the damage. Upon inspection after landing, it was found broken, rendering the aircraft unfit to fly. The plane has been officially declared AOG (Aircraft on Ground).
“The pilot immediately informed Srinagar ATC and opted for an emergency landing. His timely decision ensured the safety of all on board,” said an Indigo spokesperson. Passengers praised the pilot for his skillful handling of the situation under extreme weather conditions.
What Is Turbulence?
Turbulence refers to sudden changes in air currents that disrupt the smooth flow of air around an aircraft, causing it to jolt or bounce. It can be triggered by weather systems, jet streams, or even other aircraft.
Turbulence is categorized by intensity:
Mild Turbulence: Minimal movement (up to 1 meter), barely noticeable.
Moderate Turbulence: Noticeable movement (3–6 meters), can spill drinks.
Severe Turbulence: Violent jolts (up to 30 meters), potentially throwing unbelted passengers from their seats.
Though unsettling, modern aircraft are built to withstand extreme turbulence, and pilots are trained to manage such scenarios. Aviation experts stress that while turbulence may feel dangerous, the risk of a crash due to turbulence is low.
Historical Incidents Linked to Turbulence
While rare, there have been notable incidents involving turbulence:
In 1994, US Air Flight 1016 crashed during landing in a storm, killing 37.
In 1999, American Airlines Flight 1420 overshot the runway in turbulent weather, resulting in 11 fatalities.
In 2001, American Airlines Flight 587 crashed due to wake turbulence shortly after takeoff, killing all 260 people on board.
