Bengaluru: A distressing video showing passengers panicking midair has gone viral after a Fly91 flight from Hyderabad to Hubballi encountered severe weather conditions, forcing a diversion and triggering anxiety among those on board.
The incident involved flight IC3401, operated using an ATR turboprop aircraft, which faced turbulence and poor visibility while approaching its destination. The situation led to emotional scenes inside the cabin, with some passengers seen crying and praying.
Panic captured on camera
In the widely circulated video, a woman is seen folding her hands in prayer before breaking down in tears. As the aircraft experienced turbulence, panic spread among passengers, with cries of “Oh my God” and anxious voices echoing through the cabin.
At one point, a passenger is heard shouting in distress, while another attempts to calm others, urging them not to panic. Officials later noted that such reactions are not uncommon, particularly among first-time flyers or during unexpected turbulence.
Weather forces diversion
Airport authorities clarified that the disruption was caused solely by adverse weather conditions near Hubballi. The flight had departed Hyderabad at around 3 pm and was scheduled to land by 4.30 pm.
However, due to rain and poor visibility, the aircraft was unable to land safely. Following standard aviation procedures, the pilot held the aircraft in the air for nearly an hour, waiting for weather conditions to improve.
When visibility did not improve, the decision was made to divert the flight to Bengaluru, where it landed safely.
Airline denies technical fault
In an official statement, Fly91 refuted reports suggesting a technical issue with the aircraft. The airline emphasised that the diversion was purely weather-related and carried out in line with established safety protocols.
“The flight encountered bad weather while nearing Hubballi and was diverted as per standard operating procedures. There was zero compromise on safety,” the airline stated.
It further described claims of a technical snag as “false and baseless,” reiterating that the crew followed all necessary safety measures during the flight.
Passengers safe, journey completed
There were around 18 passengers on board the flight. After landing in Bengaluru, some passengers chose to disembark, while others continued their journey later.
Those who remained on board were subsequently flown to Hubballi, reaching their destination at around 11 pm.
Officials confirmed that all passengers were safe and that such diversions are routine during adverse weather conditions to ensure safety.
Similar disruptions reported
Authorities also pointed out that weather-related disruptions were reported in other parts of the region on the same day. In one instance, a Mumbai–Kolhapur flight was diverted to Goa due to similar conditions, highlighting the widespread impact of poor weather.
Conclusion
While the viral video has drawn attention to the panic experienced by passengers, aviation authorities have reiterated that safety protocols were strictly followed. The incident underscores the importance of weather-related precautions in aviation and the role of trained crew in handling challenging situations to ensure passenger safety.