Horror as plane enters extreme turbulence

A flight carrying 227 passengers was forced to make an emergency landing after battling severe turbulence with a gaping hole left in its nose.

A flight carrying 227 passengers was forced to make an emergency landing after battling a sudden hailstorm mid-air, with the plane’s nose left with a gaping hole.

Officials confirmed IndiGo flight 6E-2142 from Delhi to Srimagar encountered extreme weather conditions about 45 minutes into its journey, prompting the pilot to alert Air Traffic Control (ATC) Srinagar of an emergency.

The aircraft departed from Delhi at 5.13pm local time on Wednesday and, after enduring a harrowing journey, safely touched down at Srinagar Airport at 6.30pm local time.

Passengers aboard the flight described moments of sheer panic as the turbulence rocked the aircraft violently, with hailstorm impact reportedly causing minor internal damage.

An IndiGo flight from Delhi-Srinagar was forced to make an emergency landing. Picture: Tim/RashidF/SWNS

The passenger plane battled turbulence, hailstorm and a huge hole reportedly from a bird hitting the nose of the aircraft. Picture: Tim/RashidF/SWNS

Overhead compartments flung open mid-flight, sending luggage tumbling across the cabin.

Several terrified passengers, including women, were heard chanting prayers as flashes of lightning illuminated the inside of the plane, amplifying the fear of a possible disaster.

Footage from inside the plane showed distressed passengers. Picture: SWNS

Despite the scary ordeal, the plane landed safely at Srinagar Airport. Picture: Tim/RashidF/SWNS

The nose of the Airbus was reportedly damaged following a bird hit amid the hailstorm.

“I was on this flight, heading now home. It was terrible and I am still in shock,” Owais Hakeem said.

The flight with 227 passengers battled turbulence, hailstorm and a bird hit before safely landing in Srinagar. Picture: Tim/RashidF/SWNS

“I had a narrow escape while flying from Delhi to Srinagar. Hats off to the captain for the safe landing.

“Special mention to REMITA cabin crew for staying calm and professional,” another passenger Aaqib, added.

Despite the overwhelming distress, ATC Srinagar assured that all passengers and crew were safe, and the aircraft has since been designated AOG (Aircraft on Ground) for further inspection by the airline.

“All Aircrew and passengers are safe and flight has been declared AOG (Aircraft on Ground) by Airline,” ATC Srinagar said.