An IndiGo flight carrying 127 passengers from Trichy in Tamil Nadu to Singapore returned to Trichy International Airport on Friday after developing a technical problem during the journey.
The aircraft departed from Trichy at around 6.40pm and remained in the air for nearly two and a half hours after the issue was detected. The pilots continued to circle the area while airport officials remained in contact with the crew and preparations were made for the aircraft to return safely.
The flight eventually landed at Trichy International Airport at around 9pm, according to airport director Gopalakrishnan.
Airport authorities monitored the situation throughout the incident and coordinated with the pilots as the aircraft remained airborne. The decision to keep the aircraft in the area allowed the crew to reduce fuel levels before attempting the landing.
Officials said the aircraft was brought back to the airport after the necessary arrangements had been completed to ensure a safe landing.
There were no reports of injuries among the 127 passengers on board. Airport officials said the passengers would be accommodated on an alternative flight so they could continue their journey to Singapore.
The airport director confirmed that arrangements had been made for another aircraft to carry all 127 passengers to their destination.
The incident caused a delay to the passengers’ journey but ended without further complications after the aircraft returned safely to Trichy.
Technical issues can require flight crews to follow additional safety procedures before deciding whether to continue a journey or return to the departure airport. In this case, the aircraft remained airborne while the crew and airport authorities coordinated the safe return.
Passengers were expected to continue their journey to Singapore on the replacement flight after the necessary arrangements were completed.
Airport officials did not provide further details about the nature of the technical problem that prompted the aircraft to turn back. The incident is expected to be examined to determine the cause of the malfunction.
The safe landing allowed airport authorities to proceed with alternative travel arrangements while the affected aircraft remained on the ground for inspection.
The incident comes as airlines continue to face the challenge of managing technical problems while maintaining passenger safety and minimising disruption to scheduled services.
