Hyderabad-Tirupati SpiceJet Flight Returns Mid-Air After Technical Glitch

The flight, designated SpiceJet 2696, was scheduled to depart at 6:10 AM but took off slightly later at 6:19 AM.

Passengers were reportedly deboarded safely, and alternate arrangements were being considered. (File Photo)

Source : PTI

A Hyderabad-bound SpiceJet flight headed to Tirupati was forced to return to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport shortly after takeoff on Thursday morning due to a technical issue, according to airport. The flight, designated SG 2696, was scheduled to depart at 6:10 AM but took off slightly later at 6:19 AM. It was expected to reach Tirupati by 7:40 AM. However, the aircraft turned back mid-air and safely landed back in Hyderabad, raising concerns among passengers.

SpiceJet Flight Returned Due To Technical Glitch

It is indicated that the decision to return was taken as a precaution after the crew noticed a possible snag during the initial phase of the flight, reported PTI. Details regarding the nature of the technical issue have not been officially confirmed.

Passengers were reportedly deboarded safely, and alternate arrangements were being considered. 

In a statement, Spicejet said, "On June 19, 2025, a SpiceJet Q400 aircraft operating the Hyderabad–Tirupati flight experienced an intermittent illumination of the AFT baggage door light after take-off. Cabin pressurisation remained normal throughout. As a precautionary measure, the pilots decided to return to Hyderabad. The aircraft landed safely and passengers were deplaned normally. The aircraft did not make an emergency landing. An alternate aircraft has been arranged to operate the onward journey to Tirupati."

In the aftermath of the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad—which claimed over 270 lives, including casualties on the ground—air travel across the country has been severely impacted. Numerous flights on various airlines and routes have been either cancelled or diverted, citing technical issues and heightened security threats.

On 15 June, a Lufthansa flight from Frankfurt to Hyderabad turned back mid-air following a bomb threat received at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad. The threat was delivered via email at 6:01 p.m., prompting immediate action.

Given the perceived risk, the airline was advised to reroute the aircraft either to its origin or to the nearest safe airport.