SpiceJet flight calls 'Mayday' after engine failure, makes emergency landing at Delhi

A SpiceJet flight bound for Leh was forced to return to New Delhi shortly after takeoff on Tuesday morning following a reported engine-related technical problem. The Boeing 737 aircraft, operating as flight SG121, declared a full emergency and made a safe return to Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport.

The aircraft had departed from Delhi at around 6.08 am with about 150 passengers on board when a possible engine failure was detected soon after climb-out. Officials said the crew opted to turn back as a precaution and prioritise safety. Emergency response teams at the airport were mobilised in line with standard protocols.

Airport authorities confirmed that the flight landed safely back at the capital within about 40 minutes of departure and all passengers were disembarked without injury. A SpiceJet spokesperson said the aircraft returned after experiencing a technical issue, adding that there was no indication of fire in the cockpit. Preliminary information suggests the engine-related problem may have involved the aircraft’s number two engine, though detailed investigations and technical inspections are expected to follow. The airline said it will carry out checks before the aircraft is cleared for further service, and efforts are underway to accommodate affected passengers.