A Guwahati-bound IndiGo flight returned to Pune Airport shortly after takeoff on Sunday morning, November 15, following a technical failure in its landing gear. The aircraft, operating as flight 6E 0623, was carrying 192 people, including passengers and crew, when the flight crew detected the issue.
According to reports, the pilot alerted Air Traffic Control (ATC) that the landing gear had failed to retract and remained in an extended position after the aircraft became airborne. Following the notification, authorities at Pune Airport coordinated with the airline and various response agencies to manage the situation. The Indian Air Force, which maintains control over the airport, declared a full emergency and activated standard safety protocols.
In response to the emergency, fire services, ambulances, and other safety teams were placed on high alert. As a precautionary measure to allow for a visual assessment of the aircraft's landing gear, the pilots conducted a low pass over the runway. The aircraft subsequently landed safely at Pune Airport at 9.04 am.
Following the touchdown, the flight was escorted to Bay No. 7 by three fire-fighting vehicles and two ambulances. While News18 reported the total number of people on board as 192, the Hindustan Times specified the count as 193 individuals. The Hindustan Times also identified the aircraft involved in the incident as VT-IZE.
Key facts
- The incident involved IndiGo flight 6E 0623 (VT-IZE) departing from Pune for Guwahati.
- The landing gear failed to retract, prompting the pilot to signal ATC shortly after takeoff.
- A full emergency was declared by the Indian Air Force at the airport.
- The aircraft landed safely at 9.04 am on November 15, 2026.
- Ground emergency teams, including three fire-fighting vehicles, assisted the aircraft after it landed.
Why it matters
The activation of a full emergency protocol ensures that ground support, such as medical services and fire rescue teams, are immediately available to manage potential risks upon landing. By returning to the departure airport, the airline and airport authorities were able to execute a controlled landing rather than attempting a longer flight with compromised mechanical systems.
Source: News18, Hindustan Times
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