A major aviation scare unfolded when a Fly91 Airlines flight operating between Hyderabad and Hubballi was forced to remain airborne for nearly four hours due to a technical malfunction before making an emergency diversion to Bengaluru. The flight, identified as IC3401 and operated using an ATR turboprop aircraft, had departed from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport around 3 PM and was scheduled to land in Hubballi by 4:30 PM. However, as it approached its destination, a sudden technical fault reportedly disrupted normal operations, forcing pilots to abort the landing and reassess the situation mid-air.

According to initial reports, the aircraft experienced control-related issues while nearing Hubballi, prompting the flight crew to take precautionary measures and keep the plane airborne while attempting to stabilise the system. The aircraft continued circling over multiple regions in Karnataka, including Mundgod, Davanagere, and Shivamogga, as pilots worked to manage the technical glitch and ensure passenger safety. Aviation protocols required the crew to burn excess fuel and maintain safe altitude while troubleshooting the issue, leading to the prolonged duration of the flight and heightened anxiety onboard.

Passengers described scenes of panic and fear during the ordeal, with several individuals reportedly praying and breaking down in tears as uncertainty loomed over the situation. The extended time in the air, combined with limited information about the nature of the technical fault, contributed to growing distress among those onboard. Meanwhile, family members waiting on the ground expressed anger and concern, alleging that the airline failed to provide timely updates and clear communication regarding the status of the flight.

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After multiple attempts to manage the situation, the aircraft was eventually diverted and landed safely at Kempegowda International Airport at around 7:30 PM, averting what could have been a serious disaster. All passengers and crew were reported safe, though the incident has raised questions about aircraft maintenance, safety protocols, and crisis communication. Authorities are expected to conduct a detailed investigation into the technical fault and the airline’s handling of the situation to prevent similar incidents in the future.

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