Surat: In an unusual turn of events, an Indigo flight from Surat to Jaipur was delayed by an hour on Monday evening after a massive swarm of bees settled on the luggage gate of the aircraft. The bizarre incident occurred around 4:20 pm at Surat Airport, just minutes before the scheduled takeoff, causing concern among passengers and staff.
“We’ve never witnessed such a situation at Surat Airport before. It was alarming at first, especially with passengers already inside the aircraft,” said an airport ground staff member involved in the operation.
Bees Invade Aircraft’s Luggage Section
According to airport sources, Indigo flight 6E-7285 was fully boarded, and baggage was being loaded into the cargo hold when thousands of bees suddenly descended onto the luggage door of the plane. The swarm, likely disoriented by weather or attracted to the aircraft's reflective surfaces, refused to budge despite early efforts by staff.
First, smoke was sprayed to disperse the bees, but to no avail. With time ticking and passenger safety at stake, the airport fire brigade was called in to assist.
“The bees wouldn’t move even after several rounds of smoke. It was only after we used water spray that they began to disperse,” said a fire brigade officer.
Flight Takes Off After an Hour of Struggle
The flight was originally scheduled to depart at 4:20 pm. However, due to the delay in removing the swarm safely, the plane finally took off at 5:26 pm, an hour later than planned. Passengers remained seated during the entire ordeal, with crew keeping them informed and calm.
“We were confused and worried when the aircraft didn’t move. Later we were told bees had taken over the plane. It felt like something out of a movie,” said Ritika Shah, a passenger on board.
The Indigo crew and airport officials coordinated closely to ensure that the bees were removed without harming them or causing technical damage to the aircraft.
First Such Incident at Surat Airport
Officials noted that this was the first known incident of its kind at Surat Airport. Though wildlife or bird-related delays occasionally occur at airports across the country, a bee swarm affecting a flight is extremely rare.
Airport authorities have said they will investigate the possible source of the bee swarm and may coordinate with forest and wildlife departments to prevent a recurrence.
Safety Measures to Be Reviewed
Following the incident, airport management has decided to review safety protocols related to insect infestations and strengthen coordination with emergency services.
“This was unexpected, but it also serves as a wake-up call. We’ll be reinforcing perimeter checks and considering additional precautions during monsoon months,” said a senior Surat Airport official.
