A full emergency was declared on Tuesday morning after a SpiceJet flight operating from Delhi to Leh reported a technical issue shortly after takeoff. The aircraft safely returned to the national capital, and all passengers were deplaned without incident, officials confirmed.
According to sources, the flight experienced an “Engine Number 2 failure” soon after departure. The Boeing 737 aircraft, carrying around 150 passengers, made a precautionary turnaround and landed safely in Delhi at approximately 6:45 am.
Airline Confirms Technical Issue
In an official statement, a SpiceJet spokesperson said the flight operating on February 24 returned to Delhi as a precautionary measure following a technical snag.
“The aircraft landed safely in Delhi, and all passengers were disembarked normally. There was no fire warning in the cockpit,” the spokesperson clarified, emphasizing that standard safety protocols were followed throughout the incident.
Airport authorities had declared a full emergency to ensure that all necessary ground support, including fire and rescue services, were on standby during landing. Such procedures are routine in situations involving reported engine issues.
Diversion Reference Clarified
While initial inputs mentioned a diversion due to reduced visibility, officials clarified that the aircraft ultimately returned safely to Delhi. Safety assessments were conducted after landing, and the aircraft was grounded for detailed inspection by engineering teams.
Passenger Safety Prioritised
Airline and airport officials reiterated that passenger safety remains the highest priority. Alternative arrangements were reportedly being made to accommodate affected passengers on subsequent flights.
The incident once again highlights the aviation sector’s layered safety mechanisms, where precautionary returns and emergency declarations are implemented proactively to prevent risk.
