IndiGo Flight Turbulence: India and Pakistan Reject Pilot’s Request to Use Pakistani Airspace
A Delhi to Srinagar IndiGo flight encountered severe turbulence due to inclement weather, prompting the pilot to seek clearance to use Pakistani airspace to avoid the storm. However, both the Indian Air Force and Lahore’s Air Traffic Control denied the request, according to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
The incident involved IndiGo’s 6E 2142 flight, which was caught in a hailstorm and turbulence near Pathankot on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Although no injuries were reported, the aircraft’s nose cone was damaged, leading to its grounding for inspection and maintenance.
According to the DGCA, the flight entered a hailstorm and severe turbulence near Pathankot. Before that, the pilot had requested to deviate towards the international border to circumvent the bad weather. However, the Indian Air Force-controlled Northern Area Control Centre (NACC) and Lahore’s Air Traffic Control both denied the request.
The DGCA statement noted that the crew initially attempted to return but, as they were close to the thunderstorm cloud, decided to penetrate the weather. They then encountered a hailstorm and severe turbulence. The crew continued at the same heading to exit the weather by the shortest route towards Srinagar.
Among the 222 passengers on board were five members of the Trinamool Congress, who were flying to meet people affected by the recent cross-border shelling near the Line of Control (LoC).
The NACC, which directs all traffic ahead of Udhampur, is not the authority to grant clearance for aircraft to enter international territory. Defence sources clarified that the authority for flight clearance to international airspace lies with Delhi Air Traffic Control. The NACC provided ground speed information to the pilot, as instruments on the aircraft either failed or were inaccurate, making it difficult to determine the aircraft’s speed for landing.
The notice to airmen issued by Pakistan continues to restrict Indian aircraft from using certain airspace, according to the DGCA.
The incident has raised questions about the coordination between Indian and Pakistani air traffic control systems, particularly in areas near the Line of Control. The DGCA has stated that the pilot’s request for clearance to use Pakistani airspace was denied by both the Indian Air Force and Lahore’s ATC.
Passengers and crew on the flight reported a traumatic experience during the turbulence. The incident highlights the challenges faced by airlines operating in regions with complex weather patterns and geopolitical considerations.
India and Pakistan have a long-standing relationship with the Indian Air Force and Pakistan Air Force, and the incident underscores the importance of clear communication and coordination between the two nations in managing air traffic in the region.
The DGCA has not yet issued any official statement on the matter, but the incident has drawn attention to the need for improved protocols for handling such situations in the future.