Lightning Strikes IndiGo Aircraft With 140 Passengers On Board in Kolkata… What Happened Next Prevented a Bigger Disaster

In a dramatic incident amid severe weather conditions in Kolkata, an IndiGo aircraft carrying more than 140 passengers was grounded after being struck by lightning while parked at the airport on Friday.

The aircraft, operating as Flight 6E 6068 and scheduled to fly from Kolkata to Agartala, had already completed boarding when the unexpected weather event occurred. According to airport officials, the aircraft was stationed at aerobridge 56L when lightning struck during intense thunderstorms that swept across the city and surrounding districts.

Fortunately, no passengers were injured in the incident. However, the strike reportedly caused the aircraft’s power system to shut down, making it unsafe for immediate operation and forcing airline authorities to take the aircraft out of service for technical inspection.

Emergency Response Ensures Passenger Safety

Sources familiar with the matter said the airline and airport authorities acted swiftly after the incident. Passengers remained safe throughout the ordeal and were later transferred to an alternative aircraft to continue their journey to Agartala.

While all passengers escaped unharmed, two IndiGo ground staff members were reportedly affected during the lightning strike. Medical assistance was provided immediately, and both individuals are said to be in stable condition.

The incident highlighted the importance of strict aviation safety protocols, especially during extreme weather events.

Thunderstorms Disrupt Life Across Kolkata

The lightning strike occurred as heavy rain and thunderstorms battered large parts of West Bengal. Several areas of Kolkata experienced waterlogging, traffic congestion, and disruptions to daily life throughout the day.

Officials from the Airports Authority of India had already issued weather-related alerts through the Airport Operations Control Centre, warning airlines and airport staff about deteriorating conditions.

Aviation experts note that modern aircraft are generally designed to withstand lightning strikes during flight. However, when an aircraft is parked on the ground and connected to airport infrastructure, safety assessments become crucial before allowing operations to resume.

Read More- From Kumbh Fame to Court Protection: Kerala HC Orders Security for Viral ‘Rudraksh Girl’ Amid Kidnapping Row

IndiGo Issues Weather Advisory

Although IndiGo did not release a specific statement regarding the lightning strike, the airline had earlier warned passengers about potential delays and disruptions caused by adverse weather conditions in Kolkata.

In a public advisory, the airline stated that bad weather was affecting flight schedules and assured passengers that operational teams were closely monitoring the situation to ensure safe travel.

The airline also encouraged travelers to check real-time flight updates through its website and mobile application before heading to the airport.

Aviation Safety Remains Top Priority

The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges airlines face during India’s monsoon and thunderstorm seasons. Despite the disruption, the successful relocation of passengers and the absence of serious injuries underscore the effectiveness of aviation safety procedures.

As weather patterns become increasingly unpredictable, airlines and airport operators continue to rely on advanced forecasting systems, rapid-response teams, and strict safety checks to protect passengers and crew.

For the more than 140 travelers aboard Flight 6E 6068, what began as a routine journey quickly turned into an unexpected delay—but one that ended safely thanks to timely action from airport and airline personnel.