A Leh-bound SpiceJet aircraft experienced a bird strike on Sunday morning, compelling it to return to the national capital. According to the airline, the plane landed safely and passengers were deplaned without incident.
The Boeing 737 aircraft, operating flight SG 123, carried approximately 135 passengers. In a statement, SpiceJet confirmed the incident, stating, “The aircraft operating SG 123 from Delhi to Leh returned back to the national capital after suffering a bird hit on engine 2. The aircraft landed back safely in Delhi and passengers were deplaned normally.”
Contrary to earlier reports suggesting an emergency landing, SpiceJet clarified that the landing was routine. “The aircraft made a normal landing and not an emergency landing,” the airline emphasized.
A source revealed that a full emergency had initially been declared at the airport following the bird strike. The aircraft, which took off around 10:30 AM, returned to Delhi and landed safely by approximately 11:00 AM. The source added that the decision to return was made due to engine vibrations caused by the bird hit.
All passengers are reported to be safe, and the airline is making arrangements for their onward travel.