Turmoil in the Skies: IndiGo Flight's Stormy Encounter

IndiGo's flight from Delhi to Srinagar sustained damage when severe weather conditions and delays in rerouting led to a hail encounter, damaging the aircraft. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation's probe identified these factors as probable causes, with the crew unable to avoid turbulence after Pakistan airspace access was denied.

IndiGo's flight from Delhi to Srinagar met with misfortune on May 21 when it encountered severe weather conditions during its journey. A hailstorm damaged the aircraft's nose radome, compelling an investigation by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

The probe found that untimely re-routing decisions primarily contributed to the incident. Caught near a thunderstorm cloud, the aircraft faced hail and severe turbulence, ultimately causing significant technical disturbances.

The situation escalated as the autopilot system disengaged and warnings were triggered. Efforts to avoid turbulence by seeking permission to enter Pakistan's airspace were denied, exacerbating the challenges faced by the flight crew.

(With inputs from agencies.)