On June 14, 2025, an IndiGo Airbus A320neo operating flight 6E6174 from Hyderabad to Chennai suffered a tailstrike during landing.
The aircraft was grounded for repairs, and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) launched an investigation into crew techniques, wind conditions, and flap settings.
IndiGo 6E6174 Hyderabad-Chennai
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IndiGo flight 6E5325 was making an approach to runway 25 Chennai International Airport (MAA). The flight was a scheduled service arriving from Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD).
During the landing procedure, the aircraft’s tail underside impacted the runway. Following the landing incident, the aircraft cleared the active runway and taxied to the stand.
The aircraft was subsequently ground in Chennai for inspection and repair.
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The aircraft conducting the 6E6174 service was an Airbus A320neo, registered VT-IPZ. This is a 2 year old narrowbody aircraft belonging to the carrier IndiGo. It has been in operational service with the airline since its initial delivery from the factory in July 2023.
This incident marks the sixth known tailstrike involving IndiGo’s A320 fleet since 2023, raising serious questions about the airline’s safety protocols, pilot training, and operational practices.
A tailstrike occurs when an aircraft’s tail scrapes the runway during takeoff or landing, risking structural damage to critical components like the rear pressure bulkhead.
Such incidents can lead to catastrophic failures if undetected, as seen in historical cases like Japan Airlines Flight 123.
IndiGo Tailstrike Issues
In 2023, four tailstrikes prompted a DGCA audit, which exposed deficiencies in IndiGo’s training and procedures. The airline was fined ₹30 lakh for encouraging smooth landings to avoid load reports and using fuel-saving “flap 3” configurations, both linked to increased tailstrike risks.
IndiGo responded by revising policies, enhancing simulator training, and prioritizing experienced pilots for A321 operations.
A second tailstrike involving the same aircraft (VT-IBI) in Delhi—where damage went unnoticed due to a skipped inspection—highlighted persistent oversight gaps.
An IndiGo A321neo previously suffered a tailstrike during landing at Chennai Airport (MAA) on 8 March 2025.
The A321neo’s longer fuselage makes it more susceptible to tailstrikes, requiring precise handling. However, IndiGo’s recurring incidents suggest deeper systemic issues.
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Conclusion
The Chennai incident will likely renew scrutiny. Experts have previously alleged inadequate training and pressure for smooth landings as key factors. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has probed all IndiGo tailstrikes, examining crew profiling and procedural lapses.
IndiGo, holding a dominant share of India’s aviation market, insists safety is its priority and has always cooperated fully with investigators. However, the frequency of these incidents—two involving VT-IBI alone—raised concerns previously.
IndiGo’s response included grounding aircraft for repairs and refining training programs. The DGCA has previously suspended pilots and issued show-cause notices, while the AAIB’s findings could drive industry-wide changes.
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