An Akasa Air flight operating from Phuket to Bengaluru experienced a lightning strike mid-air amid adverse weather conditions before being safely diverted to Chennai, the airline confirmed.
Flight diverted due to weather
The incident occurred on March 18 when flight QP 624, operated by a Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, encountered severe weather en route. As a precaution, the flight was diverted to Chennai, where it landed safely.
The airline stated that all standard safety protocols were followed during the situation.
Crew handled situation safely
Akasa Air confirmed that the pilots and crew responded in line with established aviation procedures, ensuring passenger safety throughout the incident.
“Lightning strikes are a known and manageable occurrence in aviation, and aircraft are designed to withstand them,” the airline said in a statement.
Aircraft grounded for checks
Following the landing, the aircraft has been temporarily grounded for routine engineering inspections as part of safety protocols.
Details regarding the number of passengers onboard were not immediately available.
Safety systems prevent major risk
Aviation experts note that modern aircraft are equipped with systems that allow them to safely endure lightning strikes, with minimal risk to passengers or crew.
Reassurance amid concern
The incident, though alarming, ended without any injuries, offering reassurance about the effectiveness of aviation safety standards.