On June 20, 2025, an IndiGo flight (6E-6764) operating from Guwahati to Chennai with 168 passengers made an emergency landing at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport after the pilot issued a ‘Mayday’ distress call due to critically low fuel.
The flight attempted to land at Chennai but aborted the landing, performing a “balked landing” before diverting to Bengaluru. All passengers and crew were safely evacuated with no injuries reported. IndiGo has derostered both pilots pending an internal investigation, while airport authorities and emergency services responded swiftly to the situation.
Emergency Landing After ‘Mayday’ Call: Calm Amidst Tension
The Airbus A321 flight took off from Guwahati at 4:40 pm and was scheduled to land in Chennai at 7:45 pm. However, after reaching Chennai airspace, the pilot aborted the landing due to an unstabilised approach and insufficient fuel, issuing a ‘Mayday’ call about 35 nautical miles from Bengaluru. The aircraft then diverted to Bengaluru, landing safely at 8:20 pm.
Airport officials immediately deployed fire and medical emergency teams as a precaution. Passengers described the aborted landing and steep climb as tense moments, but praised the professionalism of the crew. IndiGo confirmed the safe landing but has yet to officially comment on the pilots’ status or the cause of the fuel shortage.
Background: Aviation Safety and Fuel Management
Emergency landings prompted by fuel shortages are rare but critical safety measures in aviation. The incident comes amid heightened scrutiny of airline operations following recent aviation mishaps in India. IndiGo, India’s largest carrier, maintains strict safety protocols, and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an inquiry into the fuel management and operational decisions on this flight.
The airline later flew the passengers to Chennai with a fresh crew. This event highlights the importance of rigorous flight planning, real-time fuel monitoring, and transparent communication between pilots and air traffic control to ensure passenger safety.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
At The Logical Indian, we commend the swift and composed response of the IndiGo crew and Bengaluru airport authorities in managing this emergency landing.
Incidents like these underscore the critical role of preparedness, vigilance, and clear communication in aviation safety. While technology plays a vital role, human judgement and teamwork remain indispensable.
