An IndiGo Goa-Delhi flight had to turn back shortly after takeoff on Tuesday morning after a technical problem was reported on board. The aircraft returned to Manohar International Airport in Goa and made an emergency landing, according to sources.
IndiGo flight 6E 2102 departed from Goa for Delhi at around 9:15 am, five minutes after its scheduled departure time. Soon after takeoff, one of the aircraft's engines was reported to have developed a problem.
The pilots decided to return to Goa after the issue was detected, and the aircraft subsequently landed safely at the airport. Sources said a full emergency was declared for a brief period following the incident.
The flight was carrying passengers bound for Delhi when the mid-air technical issue occurred.
Airline says technical issue detected
In a statement, IndiGo said a "technical issue was detected shortly after takeoff". The airline said the pilots followed the required procedures after becoming aware of the problem and decided to return to the airport.
"Following the standard operating procedure, the relevant authorities were informed, and the pilots turned back and landed the aircraft safely at Manohar International Airport," IndiGo said in a statement.
The airline said the aircraft would remain at the airport while checks were carried out.
Aircraft under maintenance checks
"The aircraft is currently undergoing maintenance checks and will resume operations after securing all necessary clearances."
The incident comes after the flight had already begun its journey towards Delhi. Instead of continuing the trip, the aircraft returned to Goa as a precaution after the technical issue was detected.
Further operations of the aircraft will depend on the outcome of the maintenance checks and the necessary clearances, according to the airline.