Why Did the SpiceJet Flight from Delhi to Patna Return Mid-Air?
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Synopsis
A SpiceJet flight from Delhi to Patna had to return shortly after take-off due to a serious technical issue. This incident adds to the list of recent challenges faced by the airline, raising questions about safety and operational reliability as the festive season approaches.
Key Takeaways
- SpiceJet flight SG 497 returned to Delhi shortly after take-off due to a technical issue.
- All passengers were safely deplaned.
- An alternate aircraft was dispatched to ensure passenger travel to Patna.
- This incident is part of ongoing technical challenges faced by SpiceJet.
- SpiceJet reported significant financial losses in recent quarters.
New Delhi, Oct 23 (NationPress) As the auspicious festival of Chhath approaches, a Patna-bound SpiceJet flight was forced to return to Delhi shortly after take-off due to a technical complication on Thursday morning.
SpiceJet confirmed that flight SG 497, utilizing a Boeing 737, safely landed back at Delhi airport, and all passengers were deplaned without incident.
Details regarding the number of passengers on board were not disclosed by the airline.
In a statement, SpiceJet noted, “On October 23, flight SG 497 from Delhi to Patna returned to Delhi after take-off due to a technical issue. The aircraft landed safely, and passengers were evacuated without any issues. An alternate aircraft is currently on its way to Patna for the affected passengers.”
This incident is the latest in a string of technical challenges faced by the budget airline in recent months.
For instance, on September 12, a SpiceJet flight from Kandla (Gujarat) to Mumbai lost an outer wheel during its ascent but managed to land safely in Mumbai.
According to a SpiceJet spokesperson, “On September 12, an outer wheel of a SpiceJet Q400 aircraft was discovered on the runway post take-off, yet the aircraft continued to Mumbai and landed safely.”
Moreover, a recent Kathmandu-bound SpiceJet flight experienced a suspected tailpipe fire at Delhi airport but returned to the bay safely.
The airline reassured that no cockpit warnings were triggered, and the pilots returned as a precaution.
SpiceJet is currently navigating through financial and operational difficulties, reporting a consolidated net loss of Rs 234 crore for the April–June quarter (Q1) of FY26, contrasting with a profit of Rs 158 crore in the same timeframe last year.
The losses have been attributed to grounded aircraft and expenses related to their return to service, in addition to a decline in leisure travel due to geopolitical tensions.
Point of View
It is crucial to prioritize passenger safety and transparency in the face of technical issues. While the airline has taken steps to ensure safe landings, ongoing challenges must be addressed to restore public trust and confidence in air travel.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the SpiceJet flight to return to Delhi?
The return was due to a technical issue shortly after take-off.
Were passengers safe during the incident?
Yes, all passengers were safely deplaned after the aircraft landed back at Delhi.
What action did SpiceJet take for the affected passengers?
SpiceJet arranged for an alternate aircraft to accommodate the passengers, which is on its way to Patna.
Has SpiceJet faced similar issues recently?
Yes, this incident adds to a series of technical difficulties the airline has experienced in recent months.
What financial challenges is SpiceJet currently facing?
SpiceJet reported a consolidated net loss of Rs 234 crore for Q1 FY26, attributed to grounded aircraft and reduced leisure travel.
