An Akasa Air flight traveling from Bengaluru to Bhubaneswar had to make an emergency landing at Lucknow International Airport. The flight, identified as QP 1503 and operated by a Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, carried 194 passengers and crew members. It was diverted to Lucknow due to unfavorable weather conditions in Bhubaneswar, making landing there unsafe.
Earlier reports indicated that the aircraft issued a “PAN PAN” alert to Air Traffic Control at approximately 9:02 PM on May 27 as fuel levels became low during the diversion. The pilot-in-command requested priority clearance and a clear approach for landing in a single attempt due to fuel constraints.
In response to the alert, Air Traffic Control declared a full emergency and activated standard emergency response procedures. Crash fire tenders were swiftly deployed and positioned along the runway as a precautionary measure. The aircraft successfully landed on runway 09 at Lucknow International Airport, with the pilot confirming normal operations and no further assistance needed.
Akasa Air later confirmed that the flight was diverted due to unsuitable weather conditions at Bhubaneswar. The airline stated that all operational and safety protocols were followed diligently in accordance with standard procedures. Subsequently, the flight departed from Lucknow and safely landed in Bhubaneswar at 00:02 hrs on May 28, 2026.
Airport officials ensured that all emergency and safety procedures were executed efficiently, with no incidents during the operation. The airline emphasized its commitment to passenger and crew safety, expressing regret for any inconvenience caused by circumstances beyond their control and appreciating passengers’ understanding.
