A Kolkata-bound IndiGo flight, carrying 272 passengers, was compelled to return to Nagpur's Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport on Monday, September 1, 2025, following a suspected bird strike shortly after takeoff. The incident prompted a precautionary landing, ensuring the safety of all those on board.

According to sources, the IndiGo Airlines flight 6E812, which was en route from Nagpur to Kolkata, experienced the bird hit mid-air, causing concern among passengers and crew. The pilots, adhering to safety protocols, made the decision to turn back to Nagpur to assess the aircraft for potential damage.

Upon landing, the aircraft was thoroughly inspected by engineers to determine the extent of the damage caused by the bird strike. Bird strikes can pose a significant threat to aviation safety, potentially damaging engines, wings, and other critical components of an aircraft.

All 272 passengers were reported to be safe after the unscheduled landing. IndiGo arranged for an alternative aircraft to continue the journey to Kolkata, minimizing further disruption to the passengers' travel plans. The airline has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.

This incident is not isolated, as bird strikes have been a recurring concern for airports, especially those located near urban areas with significant bird populations. Airports often implement various measures to mitigate the risk of bird strikes, including bird scaring techniques, habitat management, and regular inspections of runways and surrounding areas.

The incident serves as a reminder of the potential hazards birds can pose to aircraft and the importance of stringent safety measures to protect passengers and crew. Further investigations are expected to determine the exact circumstances of the bird strike and to assess any potential damage to the aircraft. The aircraft will likely undergo repairs before being cleared to return to service.