An IndiGo flight bound for Bengaluru was forced to abort takeoff due to a bird strike at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. The incident occurred just before takeoff, with 179 passengers on board, airport sources confirmed.
IndiGo flight 6E 6629, operating on the Thiruvananthapuram-Bengaluru route, returned to the bay following the bird strike. Airport officials reported that the aircraft was grounded for inspection to ensure passenger safety and assess any potential damage.
Passengers were safely deboarded, and alternative arrangements were being made to minimize delays. IndiGo has not reported any injuries, and the airline is working closely with airport authorities to investigate the incident.
Bird strikes pose a recurring challenge for airlines, particularly during critical flight phases such as takeoff and landing. Airports implement various measures, including wildlife management programs, to mitigate such risks.
The incident highlights the ongoing safety concerns associated with bird activity near airports and the rigorous protocols followed by airlines to ensure passenger safety. IndiGo has assured that all necessary precautions were taken and that passenger safety remains its top priority.