In a dramatic turn of events, an Air India Express flight bound for Bhubaneswar from Kolkata faced a mid-air technical snag, prompting a swift return to Kolkata Airport for an emergency landing. The incident unfolded on Monday, causing a temporary disruption for passengers as the airline took prompt action to address the issue.
Emergency Landing Amidst Technical Glitch:
A fully loaded Air India Express plane en route to Bhubaneswar had to make an emergency return to Kolkata Airport after encountering a technical snag mid-air. Passengers aboard the flight reported hearing a loud bursting sound around 5:40 pm, leading to a sense of urgency among both travelers and the flight crew.
Pilot’s Announcement and Swift Response:
Following the unsettling noise, the pilot promptly informed passengers about a “technical snag” in the aircraft engine and made the decision to return to Kolkata for an emergency check. The flight executed a safe landing at Kolkata airport at 6:05 pm, where teams of engineers, airline staff, and airport officials quickly assessed and addressed the situation.
Passenger Experience and Alternate Arrangements:
Passengers experienced a brief period of tension as they remained inside the aircraft for approximately 45 minutes, undergoing checks while fire tenders and ambulances approached. Despite the initial challenges in calming passengers, the airline staff efficiently arranged an alternate flight, taking off at 8 pm with all passengers on board.
Airline Apology and Commitment to Safety:
An Air India Express spokesperson expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to passengers, assuring them of the airline’s unwavering commitment to safety and security. The spokesperson emphasized that the swift action and emergency landing were precautionary measures to ensure the well-being of everyone on board.
