Incident Overview: On September 9, an IndiGo aircraft, flight No. 6E 6054, encountered a serious tailstrike while taking off from Delhi airport. The flight was scheduled to travel to Bengaluru when the tail section of the aircraft struck the runway, causing noticeable damage. Visuals reveal several white dents on the aircraft’s blue paint, indicating the severity of the impact.

Details of the Tailstrike: A tailstrike occurs when the tail of an aircraft makes contact with the runway during takeoff or landing, potentially leading to significant structural damage. This incident specifically affected the rear pressure bulkhead, a critical component that maintains the pressurized cabin's integrity. Such damage raises safety concerns and requires immediate attention.

Pilot Response and Safety Measures: Upon noticing the damage, the pilot promptly notified the air traffic controller (ATC), who then cleared the aircraft to return and land safely. The aircraft made a secure landing at Delhi airport, and fortunately, no passengers or crew were injured.

Investigation and Follow-Up Actions: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Delhi airport authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. The DGCA has derostered the crew as part of its investigation process to determine the cause of the tailstrike. The agency is focused on identifying any procedural or operational errors that may have contributed to the incident.

Passenger Arrangements: Following the incident, passengers were deboarded from the aircraft, and alternative travel arrangements were promptly made for them. The airline, IndiGo, has not yet issued a public statement regarding the incident. The focus remains on ensuring passenger safety and addressing the findings of the ongoing investigation.