Terrifying Turbulence: IndiGo Delhi-Srinagar Flight's Harrowing Journey

In a gripping incident that sent shivers down the spines of over 220 passengers and crew, an IndiGo flight 6E 2142 from Delhi to Srinagar encountered extreme turbulence on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. What began as a routine journey quickly transformed into a terrifying mid-air ordeal, highlighting the unpredictable forces of nature and the resilience of those on board.

Experience the terror and triumph of a flight battling a monster hailstorm.

The Flight Details and Unforeseen Encounter

The IndiGo flight 6E 2142, departing from Delhi around 5 PM, was on its way to Srinagar when it was suddenly enveloped by a fierce hailstorm. This severe weather phenomenon was part of a larger system that swept across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) on Wednesday evening. Approximately 45 minutes into the flight, the aircraft entered the eye of the storm, leading to immediate and violent turbulence.

• Flight Path: Delhi to Srinagar
• Date of Incident: May 21, 2025
• Time of Departure: Around 5 PM from Delhi
• Cause: Sudden and severe hailstorm

A Near-Death Experience in the Skies

Passenger accounts paint a vivid and harrowing picture of the moments that followed. Described by many as a "terrifying" and even a "near-death experience," the cabin plunged into chaos. Videos shared on social media showed scenes of sheer panic – passengers screaming, crying, and praying for safety.

The overhead bins rattled violently, and the aircraft shuddered uncontrollably. One passenger reported a sudden and significant drop of approximately 3900 feet, emphasizing the extreme nature of the turbulence. Even experienced cabin crew members were reportedly in tears, underscoring the severity of the situation.

Amidst the pandemonium, the pilot, demonstrating incredible composure and skill, declared an emergency to Air Traffic Control (ATC) in Srinagar, preparing for a challenging landing.

Safe Landing Amidst Damage

Against all odds, the skilled pilot managed to navigate the battered aircraft through the storm and execute a safe landing at Srinagar, touching down at approximately 6:30 PM (or 6:46 PM according to some reports). The relief among passengers was palpable, a testament to the successful handling of an emergency. However, the flight's ordeal left a visible mark on the aircraft itself.

Aircraft Damage: The Impact of the Hailstorm

Upon inspection, it was evident that the aircraft had sustained considerable damage. The most notable impact was to its nose cone, also known as the radome. This critical component houses the weather radar and other vital navigational instruments.

The damage, likely inflicted by the relentless pounding of hailstones, underscored the intensity of the weather encountered. Following the incident, the aircraft was promptly declared "Aircraft on Ground (AOG)" by IndiGo, ensuring it remains grounded for thorough inspection, repairs, and necessary maintenance before it can be deemed airworthy again.

Crucially, despite the visible damage and the terrifying experience, there were no official reports of injuries among the 227 passengers and crew members on board. This outcome is a remarkable testament to the aircraft's structural integrity and the crew's emergency response.

Watch the Incident Unfold (YouTube Video)

Note: Content may contain footage from the turbulent flight, which some viewers may find disturbing.

Airline Response and Passenger Relief

In the aftermath, IndiGo released a statement confirming the incident, acknowledging that flight 6E 2142 encountered a "sudden hailstorm en route." The airline emphasized that both the flight and cabin crew adhered to established protocols, leading to the aircraft's safe landing. They also assured that airport teams attended to the customers, prioritizing their well-being and comfort.

Passengers, including the Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Sagarika Ghose, widely praised the pilot's exceptional skill and presence of mind in landing the aircraft safely. Their harrowing accounts serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by aviation professionals and the importance of stringent safety measures.

While specific details of a DGCA investigation have not been widely publicized, the grounding of the aircraft for inspection and maintenance inherently involves a review by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, a standard procedure for such severe incidents involving aircraft damage.

Lessons from the Sky

The IndiGo Delhi-Srinagar flight turbulence incident serves as a powerful reminder of the dynamic and sometimes unpredictable nature of air travel. It underscores the critical role of advanced weather forecasting, robust aircraft design, and above all, the unwavering skill and professionalism of airline pilots in ensuring passenger safety.

As investigations proceed and repairs are undertaken, this incident will undoubtedly contribute valuable insights into improving aviation safety protocols in the face of increasingly volatile weather patterns.