Srinagar: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has suspended the two IndiGo pilots operating 6E 2142 flying from Delhi to Srinagar after they reportedly tried to enter Pakistani airspace due to extreme weather conditions. The event occurred earlier this week and has raised safety concerns and a regulatory follow-up.
The flight was conducted in an Airbus A321 Neo with over 220 passengers, including Trinamool Congress Members of Parliament. While mid-way in its journey, the aircraft faced severe turbulence. According to reports, the pilots requested the Northern Area Control of the Indian Air Force for clearance to divert towards the India-Pakistan International Border. They also got in touch with Lahore Air Traffic Control (ATC), asking for temporary permission to enter the airspace of Pakistan to avoid the storm. Such a request, however, was denied since a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was in force over the region.
The pilots decided to continue on the original flight path and pass through the bad weather, as no approved alternate route was available. The passengers onboard describe this experience as absolutely terrifying, with many calling it a truly “near death experience” anda flight they would never forget.
While the airplane landed safely at Srinagar, the DGCA ordered an investigation, and the pilots were suspended until investigation is done. It will also consider whether the correct process was followed in taking the decisions, especially by the crew members, considering the circumstances of the emergency.
The occurrence highlights the dilemma faced by pilots during in-flight emergencies and the imperative of strictly observing international airspace protocol, even when under stress. Updates would follow as investigations go on.
