Mid-air scare: AI Express' Delhi-Indore flight issues PAN-PAN call over engine fault; lands safely

NEW DELHI: An Air India Express' Delhi-Indore flight on Friday had a mid-air scare after it suffered an engine fault. The pilot issued a ‘PAN-PAN’ alert to signal a non-critical emergency, but the aircraft eventually landed safely at the airport with a 20-minute delay.

"After receiving information about a technical fault in one of the engines of the Air India Express plane coming from Delhi to Indore, we took all precautions and the aircraft landed at Indore airport at 9.55 am. As per the schedule, it was supposed to land at the Indore airport at 9.35am," PTI quoted Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport director Vipinkant Seth saying.

Seth said the pilot of the aircraft issued a ‘PAN-PAN’ alert to Air Traffic Control (ATC), prompting authorities to activate fire and medical arrangements at the airport in line with standard operating procedures.

‘PAN-PAN’ is an internationally recognized distress signal in aviation and maritime communication. Unlike a ‘Mayday’ call, it denotes a situation that is urgent but not life-threatening, indicating the crew requires immediate support from ATC or ground services.

He further informed that the crew of flight IX 1028 and all 161 passengers were safe.