Mid-air scare: IndiGo Kolkata-Srinagar flight makes emergency landing in Varanasi; fuel leak suspected

NEW DELHI: An IndiGo flight from Kolkata to Srinagar made an emergency landing at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh , after a fuel leak was detected, news agency IANS reported.

All 166 passengers and crew members were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported. Authorities confirmed that the situation is under control, and normal airport operations have resumed.


LBSI Airport Director Puneet Gupta told TOI, "The pilot of IndiGo Airlines flight number 6961, heading to Srinagar from Kolkata, noticed some fuel leak after which he immediately contacted Air Traffic Control (ATC) Varanasi and requested priority landing."

After receiving clearance, the aircraft landed safely on the runway at around 4:10 pm. Officials said the concerned airlines are taking the necessary action.

After the flight carrying 166 passengers landed, the technical team inspected the aircraft for necessary repairs. Meanwhile, all passengers remained seated in the arrival hall until the repairs were completed and the flight was ready for departure.

IndiGo said in a statement: “On Oct 22, 2025, IndiGo flight 6E 6961, operating from Kolkata to Srinagar, made a precautionary landing at Varanasi Airport due to a suspected technical issue. As a safety measure, the aircraft has been grounded for necessary checks, and an alternate aircraft has been arranged to continue the journey. At IndiGo, the safety of our passengers, crew, and aircraft is our top priority. We appreciate our customers' patience and cooperation as our teams work to minimise any inconvenience.”