Visakhapatnam: A Hyderabad-bound Air India Express flight with 103 passengers on board was forced to make an emergency landing at Visakhapatnam Airport on Thursday afternoon after the aircraft reported an engine problem believed to have been caused by a bird strike.
Airport director S. Raja Reddy confirmed that flight IX 2658, which had departed from Vizag at 2:38 p.m., returned within minutes after the pilot detected unusual vibrations in the engine. The aircraft landed safely at 3:00 p.m., averting what could have been a serious incident.
“The pilot reported a suspected bird hit during ascent and immediately sought permission for an emergency landing. The flight safely returned, and all passengers were deboarded without any issues,” Reddy said.
The plane had covered only about 10 nautical miles before turning back. Eyewitnesses at the airport noted heightened emergency protocols, with fire and rescue teams on standby as the aircraft touched down. Fortunately, their services were not required.
Air India Express has begun arranging alternative travel for the stranded passengers. “The airline is working to ensure that passengers reach Hyderabad at the earliest. Safety remains our utmost priority,” officials from the carrier said.
Bird strikes remain a recurring challenge at Indian airports, particularly during the monsoon season when migratory patterns and waste management issues increase bird activity near runways. Aviation experts note that even minor bird impacts can cause engine damage or operational disruptions, prompting precautionary landings.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is expected to review the incident. Meanwhile, airport authorities in Visakhapatnam have initiated checks to identify whether a bird strike did occur and to assess any damage to the aircraft.
Passengers expressed relief after the safe landing. “There was a bit of panic when the pilot announced an issue, but the crew remained calm and reassured us. We’re grateful everything ended safely,” said one traveler.
The incident once again underscores the importance of robust aviation safety protocols and rapid pilot response in handling mid-air emergencies.