IndiGo Flight’s Mid-Air Emergency: Engine Failure Triggers PAN PAN Call
In a tense mid-air situation, an IndiGo flight traveling from Delhi to Goa had to make an urgent emergency landing in Mumbai. Flight 6E 6271, an Airbus A320neo aircraft, was carrying 191 passengers on board. The incident occurred on the evening of July 16, 2025.
While flying approximately 100 nautical miles north of Bhubaneswar, the pilot reported a technical fault. Specifically, it was a malfunction in engine number one. The crew immediately followed emergency protocols and declared “PAN PAN PAN,” a standard aviation call for urgent but non-life-threatening situations.
The aircraft landed safely at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport at 9:53 pm. Thankfully, all passengers and crew were reported to be safe, and no injuries were sustained during the landing.
What Happened Onboard the IndiGo Flight?
The flight departed from Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, at around 8:00 pm, scheduled to reach Manohar International Airport, Goa. However, a technical issue surfaced during cruising altitude. At approximately 9:25 pm, the pilot made a cabin announcement informing passengers of a diversion to Mumbai.
The decision was prompted by indications of a serious engine problem. Although the airline later referred to the issue as a technical snag, aviation sources confirmed that a mid-air engine failure was the root cause.
The timely action by the IndiGo crew and standard safety procedures ensured the incident remained under control. An emergency response team, including ambulances and fire tenders, was placed on standby at Mumbai airport.
IndiGo’s Official Statement and Response
In its statement, IndiGo said, “A technical snag was detected on flight 6E 6271 while en route to Goa. The aircraft was diverted to Mumbai following SOPs. The aircraft will undergo full maintenance checks before it resumes service.”
The airline added that all passengers were disembarked safely and were being assisted by ground staff. An alternative aircraft was arranged to take them to their destination.
However, some passengers expressed concerns over further delays. One passenger stated, “We were informed of a new departure at 11:30 pm, but now there’s no pilot available. We’re still waiting.”
Decoding the “PAN PAN PAN” Alert in Aviation
The call “PAN PAN PAN” is less severe than “Mayday,” but still indicates an urgent situation. In aviation terms, it alerts air traffic control and ground services that the aircraft needs priority handling.
In this case, the IndiGo pilot used the call after detecting an issue with one of the engines. The phrase was repeated three times to ensure clarity and attention.
Similar Recent Incidents Involving IndiGo Flights
This isn’t an isolated case for IndiGo. In recent weeks, several of their flights have encountered technical difficulties:
A Delhi to Patna flight (6E 2482) performed a go-around due to an unstable approach.
Another IndiGo flight from Patna to Delhi (6E 5009) returned mid-air after a bird strike on July 9.
A Raipur-bound aircraft from Indore had to return after takeoff due to a technical snag.
These recurring incidents, although managed safely, have raised questions about IndiGo’s fleet maintenance protocols.
The Aircraft: Airbus A320neo’s Safety Track Record
The Airbus A320neo is known for its fuel efficiency and modern features. However, there have been occasional concerns about its Pratt & Whitney engines. These engines, though advanced, have been the subject of scrutiny due to reported glitches.
IndiGo operates one of the largest A320neo fleets in the world. While the airline has generally maintained a solid safety record, recent incidents could potentially affect public perception.
Passenger Safety and Ground Protocols
After the emergency was declared, standard operating procedures were swiftly followed. Mumbai ATC cleared the IndiGo aircraft for immediate landing. Emergency response teams were mobilized.
According to airport officials, fire engines and medical teams followed the aircraft along the runway. This is standard for emergency landings, especially those involving engine failure.
Aviation experts praised the IndiGo crew for staying calm and prioritizing passenger safety. The quick decision to divert avoided a potentially serious situation.
Growing Number of Aviation Incidents in India
This incident adds to a string of technical malfunctions reported across Indian aviation in recent months. Just two days before the IndiGo emergency landing, a SpiceJet flight from Pune to Delhi aborted takeoff due to a technical fault. That flight was delayed for over nine hours.
While no casualties have occurred, frequent malfunctions highlight the need for stricter maintenance oversight, especially as India’s air traffic increases.
DGCA’s Likely Probe into IndiGo’s Incident
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is expected to initiate an inquiry into the engine malfunction. The investigation will likely assess both the aircraft’s technical condition and maintenance records.
In past similar cases, the DGCA has asked for fleet-wide checks, especially when multiple incidents involve the same aircraft model.
What’s Next for Affected Passengers?
IndiGo has promised all passengers on Flight 6E 6271 will be accommodated on a replacement aircraft. The airline has also offered meals and assistance to the stranded flyers.
As of the latest update, passengers were still waiting for a new pilot to operate the onward flight to Goa. IndiGo’s customer service teams were reportedly attending to each case individually.
Conclusion: Safety First for IndiGo, But Public Trust Must Be Maintained
The safe landing of IndiGo Flight 6E 6271 is a testament to professional crew training and effective emergency protocols. However, the repeated mention of “technical snags” across different flights has created concern among frequent flyers.
IndiGo, known for its punctuality and extensive network, must now take firm steps to restore confidence. With the DGCA likely to dig deeper, fleet inspections and better transparency in operations are expected.
Passengers may accept delays, but they expect assurance in safety. For IndiGo, the priority must be clear: reduce incidents, reinforce trust, and continue flying safe.