An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Goa was forced to make an emergency landing in Mumbai after the pilot raised the “PAN PAN PAN” alert — a distress signal that indicates an urgent but non-life-threatening situation. According to Hindustan Times, the incident unfolded aboard an Airbus A320neo operating as flight 6E-6271, carrying 191 passengers and crew members.
Urgency in the Sky
As per protocol, the pilot communicated the PAN call to air traffic control when a snag was detected in engine number one, roughly 100 nautical miles north of Bhubaneswar. The aircraft was immediately diverted and landed safely at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport around 9:53 pm. Emergency services, including fire tenders and ambulances, were stationed on standby as a precaution.
What Does “PAN PAN PAN” Mean?
The term “PAN PAN PAN” is used in aviation to indicate a situation that requires urgent attention but does not pose an immediate danger to life, unlike a “Mayday” call. Originating from the French word panne, meaning a breakdown, it is a critical part of international flight communication protocol to prioritize air traffic and emergency services when necessary.
Calm Amid Technical Snag
The glitch was handled with precision. Despite the technical issue mid-air, the IndiGo crew followed standard operating procedures, keeping passengers calm and ensuring a smooth landing. The airline confirmed that passengers were later accommodated on another aircraft to complete their journey to Goa.
Aviation Experts Applaud Swift Response
Aviation analysts have praised the flight crew for their quick and calculated response. Initiating the PAN call early helped ensure there was no panic, and diverting to Mumbai — a major airport equipped for emergencies — was the most suitable course of action.
Safety First
While no injuries were reported, the aircraft has been grounded for inspection. IndiGo’s maintenance team is conducting a thorough check to determine the root cause of the engine snag. The incident highlights the importance of crew preparedness and adherence to safety protocols in managing in-flight irregularities.
Photo Credit: HT
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