The IndiGo flight bound for Agartala was reportedly struck by lightning while on the ground at Kolkata airport on June 19, 2026. This incident occurred amidst thunderstorms that were affecting the region, as indicated by alerts from the Airport Operations Control Centre. An official from the Airports Authority of India confirmed that the lightning strike took place at approximately 9.30 am.

At the time of the incident, the aircraft, identified as IndiGo flight 6E6068 (registration VT-IPW), was stationed at aerobridge 56L. The impact reportedly caused a sudden power shutdown in the aircraft’s systems, but fortunately, no injuries were reported among the 141 passengers and six crew members on board.

The adverse weather conditions, characterised by heavy rain and thunderstorms, had led to the grounding of numerous flights at the airport and caused operational challenges throughout the area. The ongoing weather events prompted authorities to issue advisories to ensure passenger safety.

Passenger and Crew Safety Measures

In response to the incident, IndiGo Airlines took immediate action to ensure the safety of its passengers. Following the lightning strike, the airline initiated a deboarding procedure for the flight’s occupants as a precautionary measure. Subsequently, passengers were transported to another aircraft, a larger A321 model (VT-ICD), to continue their journey.

The original departure time for flight 6E6068 was set for 9.20 am; however, due to the incident, the flight finally departed at 12.50 pm. This delay was essential to ensure that all safety checks were completed before the passengers resumed their travel.

According to the airline, two ground staff members present at the scene were reportedly affected by the incident and were taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation. Fortunately, they were released shortly after receiving a medical check-up, suggesting no serious injuries were sustained.

Weather Impact on Kolkata Region

The thunderstorms that resulted in the incident also had a broader impact on Kolkata and its surrounding districts. Residents have been facing issues such as waterlogging in several areas, leading to traffic disruptions and delays across the city. The adverse weather has created significant challenges for the local population and has affected daily operations in various sectors.

Authorities continue to monitor the weather conditions closely, as forecasts suggest the possibility of further thunderstorms in the days ahead. Local government agencies are working diligently to manage the situation and provide assistance where necessary, especially for those affected by flooding and traffic disruptions.

The incident involving the IndiGo aircraft serves as a reminder of the potential hazards posed by severe weather during air travel, and it highlights the importance of robust safety protocols within aviation operations. Ongoing assessments and safety measures will continue to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew members in similar situations in the future.

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