INTERNATIONAL: IndiGo Flight Avoids Disaster with Mayday Call
Incident Overview
On June 18, 2025, IndiGo flight 6E-6764, en route from Guwahati to Chennai, averted a potential accident after issuing a mayday call due to critically low fuel levels. The Airbus A321, carrying 168 passengers, safely executed an emergency landing at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport.
Sequence of Events
The flight departed Guwahati at 4:40 PM IST and attempted to land in Chennai around 7:45 PM but was forced to abort due to adverse conditions. After a go-around, the pilot detected insufficient fuel reserves, prompting the distress call to air traffic control (ATC).
Emergency Response
The pilot’s swift decision to divert to Bengaluru ensured the safe landing of the aircraft. No injuries or damage were reported, and passengers were subsequently rebooked on alternative flights.
Regulatory Actions
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an investigation into the incident, focusing on fuel management protocols. The pilots have been removed from active duty pending the inquiry’s outcome.
Contextual Significance
This incident follows a tragic Air India crash on June 12, 2025, in Ahmedabad, where 241 passengers perished. The IndiGo event underscores ongoing concerns about aviation safety in India’s rapidly expanding air travel sector.
Mayday Call Explained
A mayday call is an international distress signal used to indicate life-threatening emergencies, enabling rapid coordination with ATC for immediate assistance. Its effective use in this case highlights robust emergency protocols.