Lightning hits Lucknow-bound IndiGo flight at FL170

Dhaka: An IndiGo Airbus A320neo flying from Patna to Lucknow in India was hit by lightning at around 17,000 feet on October 7, damaging its nose.

Local media reports said the flight 6E925 was carrying 104 passengers and six crew members when the strike occurred during its approach to Lucknow amid bad weather.

Despite the damage to the front section of the aircraft, the pilots managed to land it safely at Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow.

All passengers and crew members escaped unharmed. No injuries were reported.

Following the landing, the aircraft was grounded for a technical inspection. The airline also informed India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation about the incident.

The jet, registered VT-IQZ, is expected to return to service only after completing the required safety checks and receiving clearance.

The incident took place amid unsettled weather in the region. Thunderstorms and lightning are forecast over parts of Bihar through October 9.