Bengaluru: A London-bound Virgin Atlantic flight carrying 270 passengers made an emergency landing at Kempegowda International Airport on Sunday after reportedly developing a technical snag shortly after take-off.
According to sources at Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), the aircraft took off from the airport at around 8.20 am but encountered a technical issue soon after departure.
Flight returns after circling near Tumakuru
Following the reported technical problem, the flight crew decided to return to Bengaluru as a safety precaution.
The aircraft reportedly circled over the Tumakuru area for more than half an hour before turning back towards the airport.
The flight subsequently landed safely at Kempegowda International Airport.
“All passengers on board are safe,” BIAL sources said.
The decision to return to the airport was taken as a precautionary measure after the crew detected the technical issue.
Exact nature of technical snag awaited
Airport authorities are currently working to ascertain the exact nature of the technical problem that affected the aircraft shortly after its departure.
The incident caused concern among passengers and their families, although there were no immediate reports of injuries.
Virgin Atlantic is yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident. Further details, including the nature of the technical snag and arrangements for the passengers, are expected from the airline.
The incident comes as Bengaluru airport continues to handle a large volume of domestic and international air traffic, with London being among the key international destinations served from the city.
Authorities are expected to examine the aircraft before determining its further operation.