Bengaluru: An IndiGo flight bound for Mumbai was forced to abort its takeoff on Friday evening after a bird strike occurred while the aircraft was accelerating on the runway at Bengaluru’s airport. The incident led to a delay of more than an hour as the aircraft underwent mandatory safety inspections before being cleared for departure.

According to sources, the Airbus A321Neo operating IndiGo flight 6E-6283 had already begun its takeoff roll and was gathering speed when the pilot detected a bird hit. Following standard aviation safety procedures, the crew immediately discontinued the takeoff and returned the aircraft to the bay for a detailed inspection.

The prompt action ensured passenger safety and allowed engineers to assess any potential damage before the aircraft resumed operations.

Aircraft returned for safety checks

After the bird strike was reported, the aircraft was taken back for mandatory technical examinations. Aviation regulations require comprehensive inspections following bird-hit incidents, particularly when there is a possibility of engine ingestion or structural impact.

Engineers reportedly conducted checks on both engines and other critical aircraft systems to ensure there was no damage that could affect flight safety.

Only after the inspections were completed and the aircraft was declared airworthy was it cleared to continue its journey to Mumbai.

Passengers experience delay

A passenger travelling on the flight said the aircraft had almost reached takeoff speed when the incident occurred.

“The plane had picked up speed and was about to take off when the bird hit happened. It took more than an hour before the flight resumed after the necessary checks were carried out,” the passenger said.

Despite the unexpected delay, passengers remained on board while technical teams carried out the required inspections.

No injuries were reported among passengers or crew members.

Flight departs after clearance

Flight-tracking information showed that IndiGo flight 6E-6283 was originally scheduled to depart Bengaluru at 7.04 pm for Mumbai.

Following the bird strike and subsequent inspections, the aircraft eventually departed at 8.46 pm after receiving operational clearance from airport and airline authorities.

The delay lasted approximately one hour and forty minutes.

The number of passengers on board was not immediately available.

Bird strikes remain a concern for aviation

Bird strikes are a common operational challenge for airlines worldwide, particularly during takeoff and landing when aircraft operate at lower altitudes.

While most bird strikes do not result in significant damage, aviation authorities mandate strict inspection procedures to ensure aircraft safety before flights continue.

Airports regularly implement wildlife hazard management measures, including bird monitoring and dispersal programmes, to reduce the risk of such incidents.

Safety experts note that modern aircraft are designed to withstand many bird-strike scenarios, but precautionary inspections remain essential whenever an impact is reported.