IndiGo Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Ranchi After Bird Strike
June 2, 2025 – An IndiGo flight carrying 175 passengers made an emergency landing at Ranchi’s Birsa Munda Airport today after suffering a bird strike shortly after takeoff. Flight 6E-456, en route from Delhi to Ranchi, safely returned to the airport following the incident which occurred at approximately 11:45 AM local time.
Details of the Aviation Incident
The Airbus A320neo aircraft encountered multiple birds during its initial climb, resulting in significant damage to the left engine:
Passengers
175 onboard (including 6 crew members)
Damage
Left engine compressor stall and blade damage
Response
Emergency landing within 22 minutes of takeoff
Flight Emergency Protocol Activation
The incident prompted immediate safety measures by the flight crew:
| Time | Action | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 11:45 AM | Bird strike detected during climb | Engine vibrations and warnings activated |
| 11:47 AM | Mayday call issued to ATC | Emergency clearance granted |
| 11:52 AM | Fire trucks deployed on runway | Full emergency response activated |
| 12:07 PM | Safe landing completed | All passengers evacuated safely |
Passenger Safety Measures
IndiGo implemented standard emergency procedures following the landing:
- All passengers evacuated via emergency slides within 90 seconds
- Medical teams conducted on-site health checks
- Alternative flight arrangements made within 4 hours
- Psychological counseling offered to traumatized passengers
Airport Bird Hazard Prevention
Ranchi Airport authorities have initiated special measures:
- Increased bird chasing patrols around runways
- Review of nearby waste disposal sites attracting birds
- Temporary flight restrictions during peak bird activity hours
- Installation of additional avian radar systems
Official Statements
Key responses from authorities and airline representatives:
IndiGo Airlines
“All safety protocols were followed perfectly by our trained crew”
DGCA
“Incident investigation underway, preliminary report in 72 hours”
Ranchi Airport
“Runway operations temporarily suspended for debris clearance”
Aircraft Technical Assessment
Initial inspection revealed:
- Multiple bird remains found in left engine core
- 12 compressor blades damaged beyond repair
- Engine casing with visible impact marks
- No structural damage to airframe or wings
Key Incident Facts
- IndiGo flight 6E-456 makes emergency landing after bird strike
- 175 passengers and crew safely evacuated
- Left engine sustained significant damage
- Full emergency response activated at Ranchi Airport
- DGCA investigation underway
Aviation Safety Context
This incident highlights ongoing challenges in Indian aviation:
- 127 reported bird strikes at Indian airports in 2024 (DGCA data)
- Ranchi Airport recorded 9 bird strike incidents this year
- IndiGo maintains one of Asia’s youngest fleets (average 3.5 years)
- Bird strikes cost global aviation $1.2 billion annually
Related Coverage: Aviation Safety Updates | Aircraft Technology | Air Travel Advisory
