An IndiGo flight en route from Patna to Delhi was forced to make an emergency landing shortly after takeoff on Tuesday following a bird strike, officials confirmed. The aircraft, which had just departed from Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna, experienced the bird hit during its initial ascent.
According to airport authorities, the pilot reported the incident to air traffic control (ATC) and made the decision to return to the airport as a precautionary measure. The emergency landing was conducted smoothly, and all passengers and crew on board were reported safe.
Passengers were understandably shaken but praised the crew for their calm and professional handling of the situation. IndiGo issued a statement assuring that a replacement aircraft was arranged, and the flight to Delhi resumed after necessary inspections and safety checks.
Bird strikes are a common hazard during takeoffs and landings, particularly near urban airports. Aviation experts stress the importance of bird hazard management and regular runway inspections to minimize such risks.