A Fly91 regional flight turned into an emotionally charged mid-air ordeal for passengers after it was forced to remain airborne for nearly four hours due to adverse weather conditions near its destination.
The flight, Fly91 Flight IC3401, operated on an ATR turboprop aircraft and departed from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport at around 3 PM. It was scheduled to land at Hubballi Airport by 4:30 PM. However, as the aircraft approached Hubballi, it encountered severe weather conditions, forcing pilots to abort the landing.
According to reports, the aircraft was then made to circle over multiple regions, including Mundgod, Davanagere, and Shivamogga, as the crew waited for safe landing conditions. During this extended time in the air, passengers experienced intense anxiety as turbulence and uncertainty continued.
Videos circulating on social media show distressing scenes inside the cabin, with passengers visibly shaken. Some were seen praying, while others were crying and holding onto their seats. Audio from the video captures moments of panic, including cries of fear and attempts by fellow passengers to console each other. One passenger can be heard urging calm, saying, “Don’t cry, don’t worry, nothing will happen.”
Despite the alarming atmosphere, the pilot repeatedly assured passengers that the situation was under control, instructing them to remain patient and follow safety guidelines.
As concerns grew among families of those onboard, questions were raised about communication and handling of the situation. However, Fly91 clarified that there was no technical fault with the aircraft.
In its official statement, the airline said the flight did not develop any technical snag and that the diversion was carried out strictly due to bad weather, following standard aviation protocols. It further stated that there was “zero compromise on safety” and emphasized that diverting and holding the aircraft was a routine and necessary precaution.
Eventually, after attempts to secure safe landing conditions, the flight was diverted and safely landed at Kempegowda International Airport around 7:30 PM before continuing operations as per schedule.
While the flight ultimately ended safely, the incident left passengers shaken, highlighting how rapidly weather conditions can impact regional air travel and the critical role of pilot decision-making in ensuring safety.
