Varanasi-Delhi Air India Express flight diverted to Lucknow after smoke alarm
Air India Express flight from Varanasi to Delhi made a precautionary landing in Lucknow after a cargo hold smoke alarm activated; all passengers safe.
An Air India Express flight travelling from Varanasi to Delhi was diverted to Lucknow on Thursday morning after a smoke detection alarm was triggered in its cargo hold. The aircraft, operating as flight IX 1253, landed safely at Lucknow airport at 8:52 am.
The flight had departed Varanasi around 8 am with 155 passengers and crew on board. Shortly after take-off, the cargo hold smoke alarm activated, prompting the pilot to contact Lucknow Air Traffic Control and request permission for a precautionary landing.
Upon landing, the airport's emergency response team, fire brigade personnel, and technical experts were deployed to the aircraft. All passengers and crew were deboarded by 9:02 am, according to sources.
An airline spokesperson said the crew prioritised passenger safety and opted for the diversion after detecting a technical issue. Passengers were provided refreshments at Lucknow airport, and an alternative aircraft has been arranged to continue their journey to Delhi.
The aircraft was moved to a hangar where a preliminary inspection found no signs of smoke or fire. An investigation is underway to determine why the smoke alarm was activated.