IndiGo Flight From Pune To Guwahati Returns After Landing Gear Malfunction

An IndiGo flight traveling from Pune to Guwahati was forced to return to its departure point shortly after take-off on Sunday, November 15, following a technical problem involving the aircraft's landing gear. Flight 6E 0623, which was carrying 192 passengers and crew members, encountered a mechanical issue that prevented the undercarriage from retracting properly as the plane climbed.

Addressing the landing gear of a plane

Upon identifying that the landing gear remained in the extended position, the pilot immediately alerted Air Traffic Control. In response to the situation, the Indian Air Force declared a Full Emergency at Pune Airport, triggering standard safety protocols. Emergency response teams, including fire services and ambulance units, were placed on high alert to ensure the safety of everyone on board.

To facilitate a visual assessment of the situation, the aircraft performed a low pass over the runway. The plane subsequently landed safely at the airport at 9:04 AM. Following the landing, the aircraft was escorted to Bay No. 7 by emergency vehicles. Once the status of the plane was confirmed as stable, the emergency was officially withdrawn at 9:10 AM, and all 192 individuals on board were safely deboarded without any reported injuries.

All 192 passengers and crew members landed safely in Pune following a technical landing gear malfunction.

IndiGo confirmed that the aircraft is currently undergoing maintenance checks and will return to service only after receiving the necessary clearances. To minimize disruption for the affected travelers, the airline arranged an alternate aircraft from Bengaluru to complete the journey to Guwahati. Passengers were offered various support services, including refreshments, meal vouchers, and options for refunds or alternative travel arrangements.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of rigorous aviation safety protocols and the coordinated response between civil aviation authorities and the Indian Air Force. For passengers, it underscores the effectiveness of emergency procedures in ensuring that technical malfunctions are managed without injury.

The event caused significant travel delays for those headed to Guwahati, prompting the airline to implement contingency plans. Such incidents serve as a reminder of the operational complexities involved in commercial air travel and the priority placed on passenger security during unexpected mechanical issues.