
An IndiGo flight operating from Delhi to Srinagar encountered extreme mid-air turbulence due to a sudden hailstorm. The aircraft sustained significant damage to its nose section but managed a safe emergency landing. All 227 passengers onboard are safe, although the terrifying incident has sparked debate on weather-related flight risks.
IndiGo Delhi to Srinagar Flight Turbulence Causes Panic Onboard
In a shocking mid-air incident, IndiGo flight 6E2142 from Delhi to Srinagar was struck by a powerful hailstorm on May 21, 2025, leading to intense turbulence and visible damage to the aircraft’s nose cone. The IndiGo Delhi to Srinagar flight turbulence sent panic across the cabin, with several passengers describing the experience as traumatic and “near-death.”
Despite the adverse weather, the flight, operated by an Airbus A321, made a safe emergency landing in Srinagar with all passengers and crew unharmed. Videos from inside the aircraft show the cabin shaking violently as hail pelted the fuselage.
Emergency Landing After Hailstorm Hits Indigo Aircraft
The flight took off from Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, at around 5:00 PM IST, bound for Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar. According to sources, the aircraft encountered a severe hailstorm during descent, resulting in major turbulence in Srinagar’s airspace.
Realizing the aircraft had sustained damage, the pilot declared an emergency and contacted Srinagar Air Traffic Control (ATC). Despite the intense weather and stress onboard, the experienced flight crew executed a controlled and safe landing.
Passengers Share Harrowing Experience of IndiGo Flight Turbulence
Several passengers onboard documented their terrifying experience. Video footage shared widely on social media shows hail crashing into the windows while passengers hold on to seats and pray.
Among the 227 passengers onboard was Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and Member of Parliament Sagarika Ghose. Speaking to reporters after landing, she described the incident as “the worst flying experience of my life,” adding that the IndiGo Delhi to Srinagar flight turbulence caused widespread panic, with many fearing for their lives.
“The aircraft was violently shaking, and then came a loud bang. We were all just praying we’d make it,” said another passenger.
Visual Damage: Indigo Aircraft Nose Cone Shattered by Hailstorm
Post-landing images show significant damage to the aircraft’s radome (the rounded nose cone of the plane), which appeared dented and cracked. The radome is a vital component that houses weather radar and other sensitive instruments.
IndiGo released an official statement confirming the damage:
“Flight 6E 2142 operating from Delhi to Srinagar encountered unexpected hail en route. The aircraft experienced minor damage to the radome but landed safely. All passengers and crew are safe.”
The aircraft has since been grounded for technical inspection and repairs.
Aviation Experts Weigh In: Weather Risks and Safety Protocols
Aviation analysts point out that while commercial aircraft are designed to handle turbulence, hailstorms pose a more serious threat due to the physical damage they can inflict.
“The radome damage in this case indicates high-velocity hail impact. Fortunately, the pilots’ quick response and adherence to emergency protocols prevented a tragedy,” said aviation safety expert Captain Raghav Mehta.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been informed and is expected to launch a probe to assess the incident and determine whether flight path adjustments or additional weather monitoring measures are needed in the Delhi–Srinagar corridor.
Reactions: Praise for IndiGo Crew and Questions on Weather Readiness
Despite the panic, passengers and aviation professionals alike have praised the IndiGo crew’s professionalism and response to the emergency.
However, the incident has also raised concerns over the preparedness of Indian airlines in dealing with sudden extreme weather conditions. With climate patterns becoming increasingly erratic, industry experts urge more real-time weather tracking and rapid response protocols for routes prone to mountain weather turbulence, such as the Srinagar valley.
Conclusion
The safe landing of IndiGo flight 6E2142 after a harrowing experience with severe turbulence and hailstorm conditions demonstrates the resilience of modern aviation systems and the competence of trained flight crews. While no injuries were reported, the dramatic incident is a sobering reminder of the unpredictability of nature — and the importance of vigilance in aviation safety.
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