On May 21, 2025, IndiGo Flight 6E2142, en route from Delhi to Srinagar, encountered severe turbulence due to a sudden hailstorm near its destination.
The flight, carrying 227 passengers, experienced significant external damage, particularly to its nose, as it navigated through the adverse weather conditions.
According to reports, the pilot requested permission from Lahore Air Traffic Control (ATC) to enter Pakistani airspace to avoid the turbulence. However, the request was denied, and the flight continued on its original course, enduring the severe weather. Despite the challenging conditions, the aircraft managed a safe landing at Srinagar Airport around 6:30 p.m. local time, with no reported injuries.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated an investigation into the incident to determine the sequence of events and assess any violations or safety concerns arising from the situation. This incident underscores the complexities and critical nature of international airspace regulations and emergency protocols, especially during unpredictable weather conditions. The refusal of the airspace request highlights the challenges faced by airlines operating in regions with restricted airspace access Also Read: YEIDA to Develop 35 km Green Corridor to Noida Airport