Delhi-bound SpiceJet plane returns to Patna after sparks from engine, passengers safe

A Delhi-bound SpiceJet plane, carrying 185 passengers and six crew members, made an emergency landing in Patna on Sunday afternoon, minutes after its take-off, as its cabin crew witnessed sparks coming from an engine, a senior government official said. All the passengers of the Boeing 737-800 aircraft were safely deboarded, according to a SpiceJet statement.

“During rotation (takeoff), the cockpit crew suspected a bird hit on engine No.1 (left engine). Since the crew did not observe any abnormality, the aircraft continued further climb,” the official said.

“Subsequently, the cabin crew informed pilots about sparks coming from the engine… Crew declared PAN-PAN and decided to return to Patna.