KKN Gurugram Desk | In a significant aviation incident, IndiGo flight 6E6902, operating an Airbus A320neo, experienced a bird strike while en route from Patna to Ranchi on June 2, 2025. The aircraft, carrying 175 passengers, was struck by a vulture at an altitude of approximately 4,000 feet, about 10–12 nautical miles from Ranchi’s Birsa Munda Airport.

Incident Details

The bird strike occurred around 1:14 PM local time, causing visible damage to the aircraft’s nose cone. Despite the impact, the flight crew managed to maintain control of the aircraft. Exercising caution, the pilots entered a holding pattern near the airport to assess the situation before proceeding with the landing.

Emergency Landing

After approximately 25 minutes in the holding pattern, the pilots executed a safe landing at Birsa Munda Airport. All 175 passengers and crew members disembarked without any injuries reported. The aircraft was scheduled to continue to Kolkata; however, due to the incident, it was grounded for inspection and repairs.

Official Statements

Airport Director R R Maurya confirmed the details of the incident, stating, “An IndiGo flight suffered a bird hit near Ranchi. It was approximately 10 to 12 nautical miles away from here at an altitude of 3,000 to 4,000 feet when the incident occurred. The IndiGo flight was coming from Patna to Ranchi, and the pilot had to make an emergency landing here.”

Aircraft Inspection

Post-landing, engineers commenced a thorough inspection of the aircraft to assess the extent of the damage caused by the bird strike. Preliminary reports indicate a dent on the nose of the aircraft, but a comprehensive evaluation is underway to determine the necessary repairs.

Bird Strikes: A Persistent Aviation Hazard

Bird strikes pose a significant risk to aviation safety, particularly during takeoff and landing phases. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued guidelines for all Indian airports to implement wildlife hazard management plans. These include regular patrols, grass trimming, insecticide spraying, and removing attractants like garbage or water pools.

The incident involving IndiGo flight 6E6902 underscores the importance of vigilant wildlife management around airports and the need for continued investment in aviation safety measures. The professionalism and prompt response of the flight crew ensured the safety of all onboard, averting a potential disaster.