An IndiGo flight from Mumbai to Chennai executed a go-around maneuver on November 30, 2024, due to adverse weather conditions caused by Cyclone Fengal. The aircraft encountered strong crosswinds and turbulence during its initial landing attempt at Chennai International Airport, prompting the pilot to abort the landing and circle back for a subsequent approach. This action, captured in a viral video, has drawn widespread attention.
Watch:
Abolsutely insane videos emerging of planes trying to land at the Chennai airport before it was closed off… Why were landings even attempted in such adverse weather? pic.twitter.com/JtoWEp6Tjd
— Akshita Nandagopal (@Akshita_N) December 1, 2024
IndiGo Airlines issued a statement clarifying that the cockpit crew of flight 6E 683 performed the go-around in strict adherence to established safety protocols. The airline emphasised that such maneuvers are standard practice when safe landing conditions are not met, and that their pilots are extensively trained to handle such situations with professionalism.
The airline’s statement read: “Due to adverse weather conditions, including rain and strong, gusty winds (which later led to the closure of Chennai airport), the cockpit crew of flight 6E 683, operating between Mumbai and Chennai, executed a go-around on November 30, 2024, in accordance with established safety protocols.”
IndiGo further assured passengers of their commitment to safety, stating: “This is a standard and safe manoeuvre, and our pilots are extensively trained to handle such situations with the utmost professionalism. A go-around is performed when a safe landing cannot be achieved, as was the case with this flight. We would like to reaffirm our commitment to the safety of our passengers, aircraft, and crew members.”
Cyclone Fengal, which made landfall near Puducherry on November 30, brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to the region, leading to significant disruptions. Chennai International Airport temporarily suspended operations due to the severe weather but resumed early on Sunday morning after the cyclone had crossed the North Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts. The cyclone has been responsible for at least 19 fatalities across India and Sri Lanka, with Tamil Nadu and Puducherry experiencing substantial flooding and damage.
The viral video of flight 6E 683’s go-around has sparked discussions on social media, with many praising the pilot’s decision to prioritize safety amid challenging conditions. Aviation experts have reiterated that go-arounds are a routine safety procedure employed to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew when landing conditions are not optimal.
Passengers on the affected flight commended the crew’s professionalism and calm handling of the situation. One passenger noted, “The pilot kept us informed throughout the process, and we felt safe despite the turbulence.”
Also read: AAP MLA Naresh Balyan Linked to Gangster: DCP (Crime Branch) Sanjay Kumar Sain
As the region recovers from the impact of Cyclone Fengal, authorities continue to monitor weather conditions to ensure the safety of air travel and other transportation services.
