IndiGo Kolkata–Srinagar flight makes emergency landing in Varanasi after mid-air fuel leak scare

A routine IndiGo flight from Kolkata to Srinagar turned tense on Wednesday afternoon after the crew detected a possible fuel leak mid-air, prompting an emergency landing at Varanasi’s Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport. The aircraft, flight 6E-6961, carrying 166 passengers and crew, landed safely around 4:10 pm, averting a potential crisis.

Swift Response from Crew and ATC

According to officials, the pilot immediately alerted Air Traffic Control (ATC) upon noticing irregularities in the fuel system. Acting swiftly, ATC cleared the aircraft for an emergency landing. The flight crew executed the maneuver calmly and efficiently, ensuring complete control during descent and touchdown. Emergency teams were on standby as the aircraft rolled safely onto the runway.

All Passengers Safe and Calm

Once on the ground, all passengers were safely evacuated and escorted to the terminal building. Airport authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported. Technical teams have since begun a thorough inspection of the aircraft to identify the source of the leak before clearing it for further operations.

Passengers Praise Crew’s Composure

Several passengers took to social media to applaud the crew’s professionalism and composure. “The pilot and crew acted swiftly and reassured everyone. We felt safe throughout,” one passenger said.

A Crisis Well Managed

What could have been a frightening ordeal turned into a story of professionalism, precision, and teamwork. Thanks to the crew’s quick thinking and flawless execution, every passenger walked away safe, a testament to IndiGo’s strong safety standards and calm under pressure.