July 16, 2025: A major air safety incident was narrowly avoided on Tuesday night after an IndiGo flight from Delhi to Patna was forced to abort its initial landing attempt due to an unstable approach at Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport.
The aircraft, operating as IndiGo Flight 6E 2482, was carrying 173 passengers when it arrived over Patna at approximately 9:00 PM. Just moments before touchdown, the pilot executed a go-around maneuver, lifting the aircraft back into the air and circling the airport three to four times before completing a successful second landing.
Why the Go-Around?
According to sources, the maneuver was a standard aviation safety procedure prompted by the short and challenging runway conditions at Patna airport. Aviation officials confirmed that the pilot’s decision was precautionary, taken to ensure a stable approach for landing.
“It was a normal and safe maneuver. The pilot opted for the go-around to ensure a stable landing approach,” a source said.
While there was no emergency declared, the sudden re-takeoff caused panic among passengers, many of whom were unaware of the protocol. The crew later reassured everyone onboard that the situation was under control and the maneuver was executed out of an abundance of caution.
Runway Concerns and High-Risk Area
Patna’s airport is known for its short runway and proximity to densely populated areas like Polo Road, which houses several government officials. Eyewitnesses noted that the aircraft’s course appeared unusually low before the pilot pulled up for the go-around — a move that may have prevented a potentially catastrophic outcome.
Second IndiGo Incident in a Week
This marks the second incident involving an IndiGo flight in Patna within just a week. On July 9, Flight 6E 5009 en route from Patna to Delhi suffered a bird strike, forcing the aircraft to return mid-air. That flight was later grounded and cancelled for maintenance checks.
No Injuries Reported, Passengers Safe
Thanks to quick thinking by the pilot and standard aviation safety protocols, no injuries were reported, and all passengers deboarded safely after the second landing attempt.