Hyderabad-Tirupati SpiceJet Flight Returns Mid-Air Due to Technical Snag, Lands Safely at RGI Airport

A SpiceJet flight (SG 2696) operating on the Hyderabad–Tirupati route made a precautionary return to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) shortly after takeoff on Thursday due to a technical issue. The aircraft landed safely, and all passengers were deplaned without incident, confirmed a GMR spokesperson.

✈️ What Happened Mid-Air?

The Q400 turboprop aircraft experienced an intermittent illumination of the AFT baggage door warning light shortly after takeoff. While cabin pressurization remained stable, the pilots chose to return to Hyderabad as a precautionary measure.

In an official statement, SpiceJet clarified:

“The aircraft did not make an emergency landing. The pilots followed standard operating procedures and landed the aircraft normally. An alternate aircraft has been arranged to complete the journey to Tirupati.”

🔄 Passenger Safety Ensured

All passengers were safely deplaned at Hyderabad airport.

No injuries or panic were reported onboard.

Alternate arrangements were promptly made for onward travel to Tirupati.

🧰 Aircraft Under Inspection

The SpiceJet aircraft involved is undergoing a detailed technical inspection to determine the cause of the alert. Initial reports suggest no severe mechanical malfunction occurred.

📰 Related Aviation News

In a separate incident on the same day, an IndiGo flight (6E2006) from Delhi to Leh also returned mid-air due to a technical snag. The IGI Airport in Delhi confirmed the aircraft landed safely, and all 180 passengers were deplaned without issue. IndiGo has deployed a replacement aircraft to complete the flight to Leh.

🛫 Airlines Respond Proactively

Both SpiceJet and IndiGo have reassured passengers about their commitment to safety-first operations and minimal disruption to scheduled services. Experts emphasize that such precautionary returns are standard in modern aviation to avoid risk and ensure passenger safety.

📍 SpiceJet Hyderabad-Tirupati Flight: Key Details

Flight No. SG 2696

Aircraft Type Bombardier Q400

Departure Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad

Destination Tirupati

Incident Intermittent AFT baggage door light

Status Landed safely, alternate aircraft arranged

🔗 Stay Informed

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