IndiGo Turbulence: India, Pakistan Deny Weather Diversion
An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Srinagar carrying 222 passengers, including five Trinamool Congress MPs, encountered severe turbulence and a hailstorm mid-air on May 21, 2025. The pilots reported the emergency to air traffic control at Srinagar, and the aircraft landed safely, though its nose cone was damaged and required inspection and repairs.
According to India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), IndiGo flight 6E 2142 faced severe weather conditions near Pathankot. The crew requested permission to deviate toward international airspace to avoid the thunderstorm, but the Indian Air Force denied the request. Lahore’s Air Traffic Control also refused permission, citing ongoing airspace restrictions between India and Pakistan.
Due to heightened geopolitical tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, both nations have closed their airspace to each other’s carriers. As a result, the pilots were forced to fly through the storm rather than divert. The DGCA confirmed the crew initially attempted to return but ultimately chose to penetrate the weather system and continue to Srinagar via the shortest route.
IndiGo stated all passengers were unharmed and attended to upon arrival. The airline added that the aircraft remains grounded in Srinagar for maintenance and will resume service after clearance.
Passenger accounts, including those from MPs like Sagarika Ghose, described the turbulence as a terrifying experience. Videos circulated on social media show distressed passengers praying as the plane shook violently, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the professionalism of the flight crew under extreme conditions.
Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-health-security/safety/
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, thehindu.com