An IndiGo flight 6E812, operating from Nagpur to Kolkata, encountered a suspected bird strike on Tuesday, prompting an investigation. The incident occurred on the morning of September 2, 2025, causing concern among officials and passengers.

Following the suspected bird hit, authorities initiated an analysis to determine the extent of the incident. Abid Ruhi, the Senior Airport Director at Nagpur Airport, confirmed the suspected bird strike and stated that further investigation is underway. The aircraft, carrying 272 passengers, returned to Nagpur airport after the incident.

Bird strikes pose a significant threat to aviation safety worldwide. These incidents can occur when birds collide with an aircraft's engine, windshield, or fuselage, potentially causing damage and compromising the safety of the flight. In response to such risks, aviation businesses and regulatory bodies enforce stringent safety measures to mitigate the impact of bird strikes and ensure passenger safety.

In India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) plays a crucial role in regulating and monitoring aviation safety standards. The DGCA has been known to implement rigorous regulations and encourage airports to adopt robust bird control measures, especially in areas with high bird populations. These measures may include habitat management, noise deterrents, and bird scaring techniques to minimize the risk of bird strikes.

Notably, this isn't an isolated event for IndiGo. In recent months, several IndiGo flights have experienced bird strikes, prompting emergency landings and safety inspections. On July 9, 2025, an IndiGo flight from Patna to Delhi made an emergency landing after a bird strike caused a technical snag in one of its engines. Similarly, an IndiGo flight from Surat to Delhi was diverted to Ahmedabad following a bird strike during takeoff.

These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges faced by airlines in managing wildlife hazards, particularly bird strikes. Airports located near areas with high bird populations are particularly vulnerable, necessitating proactive measures to mitigate the risks. For example, the presence of slaughterhouses near Patna Airport has been identified as a contributing factor to increased bird activity in the area.

Airlines undertake detailed inspections of aircraft following bird strike incidents to assess the extent of the damage and ensure that the aircraft is safe for future operations. These inspections involve careful examination of the engine and other affected systems to determine if repairs are necessary. The aircraft involved in the Nagpur-Kolkata incident will also undergo thorough inspection before being cleared for service.

While investigations are ongoing, the safety of passengers and crew remains the top priority. Airlines and aviation authorities are committed to implementing measures that minimize the risk of bird strikes and ensure the safe operation of flights.