Air India Express Makes Emergency Landing in Visakhapatnam

An Air India Express flight en route from Visakhapatnam to Hyderabad made an emergency landing shortly after takeoff due to an engine problem suspected to have been caused by a bird strike.

The flight, number IX 2658, had 103 passengers onboard. According to N Purushottam, director of Visakhapatnam Airport, the pilot requested the emergency procedure and safely landed the aircraft back in Visakhapatnam. Passengers were deboarded without incident.

The flight initially departed at 2.38 pm, and returned by 3 pm after traveling approximately 10 nautical miles. The airline is making alternative travel arrangements for affected passengers.

(With inputs from agencies.)