SpiceJet Flight Returns to Delhi After Engine Issue

A SpiceJet flight bound for Leh from New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport returned safely to the capital early Tuesday morning after experiencing an engine malfunction shortly after takeoff, prompting airport officials to declare a full emergency.

Flight SG121, a Boeing 737 carrying around 150 passengers, departed around dawn but turned back within minutes when the crew detected a problem in the aircraft's number two engine, according to sources familiar with the incident. Pilots initiated the return as a precaution, ensuring a priority landing with medical and fire services on standby. The plane touched down without further issues, and all passengers disembarked normally. No injuries were reported, and the airline arranged alternative travel options for those affected.

A SpiceJet spokesperson confirmed the details in a statement, saying the Delhi-to-Leh service "returned to Delhi after experiencing a technical issue. The aircraft landed safely in Delhi, and all passengers were disembarked normally." Maintenance teams were scheduled to inspect the plane thoroughly before it could resume operations. Officials have not yet released a final determination on the exact...