Passengers described a harrowing experience aboard an IndiGo flight from New Delhi to Srinagar, where severe hailstorms triggered a terrifying descent. Many thought they would not survive as turbulence intensified and visible damage to the aircraft became apparent upon landing.
Terrifying Hailstorm Encounter Leaves Passengers Frightened on IndiGo Flight
Terrifying Hailstorm Encounter Leaves Passengers Frightened on IndiGo Flight
A severe hailstorm caused panic on a flight from New Delhi to Srinagar, as passengers feared for their lives during a chaotic descent.
Sheikh Samiullah, a logistics executive and frequent traveler, recounted the panic as his IndiGo flight encountered a sudden hailstorm while flying from New Delhi to Srinagar in Kashmir. Moments after the pilot's safety announcement, the turbulence escalated, causing the passengers to scream and pray, fearing for their lives. The situation turned chaotic, as even flight attendants were visibly shaken.
In a harrowing account, Samiullah described how the plane plunged and jolted violently for several minutes, with prayers echoing throughout the cabin. “We thought it was our last flight; we thought we were going to die,” he said, reflecting on the terror that enveloped all aboard.
Despite the ensuing chaos, the aircraft managed to land safely in Srinagar, albeit with significant damage. Passengers were shocked to witness that the nose of the plane had sustained severe hail damage upon disembarkation. IndiGo Airlines later confirmed that the flight had encountered unexpected weather conditions, and the crew followed established safety protocols throughout the ordeal.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) emphasizes that hail poses a serious threat during thunderstorms, as the potential for air turbulence can greatly endanger aircraft. They alert that hailstones of half an inch or larger can inflict substantial damage to planes within seconds. With the right weather radar technology, pilots can often avoid such dangerous conditions.
The incident recalls previous aviation emergencies, including a recent event where a Singapore Airlines flight faced similar extreme turbulence, resulting in passenger injuries. Passengers aboard the IndiGo flight, initially filled with despair, were ultimately relieved to emerge unscathed as they shared a collective experience that will mark this journey in their memories forever.
Monika Cvorak contributed reporting. Jenny Gross is a journalist with a focus on breaking news for The Times.
