An Air India Express flight bound for Delhi from Bagdogra carried out an emergency landing at Lucknow’s Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport on March 30, 2026, after the crew reported signs of smoke or fumes in the cockpit panel area. The incident triggered a precautionary evacuation, but all 148 passengers and crew emerged unharmed.
Flight details and mid‑air alert
The flight, operating as IX‑1523, was cruising at an altitude of about 36,000 feet when the pilots detected a smoke‑like odour or fumes originating from the avionics or instrument panel region. As a standard safety procedure, the crew declared a priority emergency, issued a distress call, and automatically deployed oxygen masks in the cabin. Several passengers described moments of panic as the masks fell and the aircraft began a rapid descent.
Emergency landing and evacuation
Air traffic control immediately cleared the jet for an emergency landing at the nearest major airport—Lucknow. The airport declared a full‑scale emergency, with firefighting units, ambulances, and security teams standing by on the runway. The aircraft touched down safely at around 5:17 pm, and ground personnel carried out a swift evacuation; there were no reported injuries or serious medical issues among passengers.
Aircraft grounded, probe underway
Post‑landing inspections revealed no visible fire or major external damage, but the aircraft remains grounded for a detailed technical review. Engineers and airline safety officials are examining the avionics systems, sensors, and cockpit environment to pinpoint whether the alert was caused by a genuine fault, sensor error, or other technical issue. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is also expected to review the incident as part of routine safety oversight.
