An IndiGo plane that was to take off from Ahmedabad to Diu on July 23 had to abandon takeoff when one of its engines erupted in flames. The plane, an ATR 76, was carrying 60 passengers when the fire started during takeoff roll. The pilots quickly halted the aircraft and issued a mayday.
The passengers were safely evacuated, and emergency procedures were followed. This incident raises questions about safety and maintenance after another technical issue occurred on an IndiGo flight from Goa to Indore earlier this week.
Engine Fire During Takeoff
Flight 6E 7966 was about to take off from Ahmedabad airport at about 11 am. The pilots detected a serious problem as the plane accelerated for takeoff. One of the engines had caught fire. With no delay, they issued a “Mayday” to air traffic control.
The plane stopped on the runway and made its way back to the bay. The crew evacuated all on board immediately without any reported casualties.
IndiGo Releases Statement
IndiGo subsequently confirmed that the pilots adhered to standard procedures after a “technical snag indication” was picked up by them. The airline added that the aircraft would receive stringent checks and maintenance before it is put back into service.
“A technical snag indication was observed before takeoff… The aircraft will be subjected to necessary checks and maintenance,” an IndiGo official stated.
The airline also apologized for the disruption and stated that it is providing refreshments, rebooking, or refunds in full to those impacted passengers.
Second Incident in a Week
This incident comes hot on the heels of another technical issue with IndiGo. A flight from Goa to Indore encountered a snag just before landing on Monday. While that flight landed safely, the plane has been grounded for technical examination.
Two incidents in close succession have raised alarm and demands for greater regulation of aircraft maintenance.
Safety Under Scrutiny
It is anticipated that the incident will be investigated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). IndiGo has been asked by officials to provide a report outlining the reason behind the engine snag and the crew’s reaction.
The pilots’ prompt action, which probably avoided a serious accident, was commended by experts. Passenger safety was guaranteed by the prompt Mayday call and aborted takeoff. However, the back-to-back technical snags — first in a Goa-Indore flight, now in Ahmedabad — have raised concerns. Concerns have been raised regarding IndiGo’s maintenance procedures.
Airlines are being urged by passenger organizations to be more transparent. At the Ahmedabad airport, some passengers also expressed disarray and delays in updates. IndiGo’s fleet may now be subject to unexpected audits by the DGCA. The biggest airline in India in terms of market share is under pressure to rebuild confidence and demonstrate its dedication to safety.
