An IndiGo flight from Sharjah, United Arab Emirates to Lucknow, India made an emergency landing in Pakistan on Tuesday due to a medical emergency on board. The flight carrying 135 passengers and crew members diverted to Lahore, Pakistan, where the passenger suffering from a medical condition was taken to a hospital for treatment.
Following the medical emergency, the flight was allowed to rest and refuel before continuing its journey to Lucknow. Pakistani authorities provided necessary clearance to the flight after it landed in Lahore. IndiGo issued a statement thanking relevant authorities for their support and cooperation during the emergency.
The medical emergency occurred as the flight was passing through Pakistani airspace, causing the crew to declare an emergency and request priority landing. The passenger’s condition remains unknown, but it has been reported that the individual was in stable condition after receiving medical attention.
IndiGo’s emergency landing in Pakistan comes amidst heightened tensions between the two neighboring countries. Relations between India and Pakistan have been strained since the 2019 Pulwama attack, which resulted in the deaths of 40 Indian soldiers. Both nations have since engaged in intermittent cross-border shelling and skirmishes along the Line of Control in the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir.
The emergency landing is also noteworthy as it occurred amid ongoing air travel disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many airlines have suspended or reduced their international flights due to travel bans and restrictions imposed by various countries. However, IndiGo continues to operate its flights with necessary precautions and adhering to COVID-19 protocols.
IndiGo is India’s largest airline, operating flights to more than 60 domestic and international destinations. The low-cost carrier has been expanding its operations in recent years and has been focusing on its international routes to the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The airline has a fleet of more than 250 aircraft, including Airbus A320, A321neo, and ATR 72-600 planes.
In summary, IndiGo’s emergency landing in Pakistan due to a medical emergency is a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the aviation industry amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The incident also highlights the importance of timely emergency responses and cooperation between nations, particularly during times of heightened tensions.