NEW DELHI — In a tense start to the day, SpiceJet Flight SG-121 (DEL-IXL) declared a “Full Emergency” at 6:30 AM after the flight crew detected a critical failure in the aircraft’s Engine Number 2. The plane, which had just departed for the high-altitude airport in Leh, executed a priority air return and touched down safely at around 6:45 AM.
Incident Timeline: February 24, 2026
- Takeoff: The aircraft departed from Delhi’s IGI Airport in the early morning hours.
- Emergency Declared (6:30 AM): Shortly after takeoff, pilots reported a “technical issue” specifically linked to the second engine and requested an immediate return.
- Full Emergency Status: Ground crews, including fire tenders and medical teams, were put on high alert to secure the landing strip.
- Safe Landing (6:45 AM): The aircraft landed without further incident. All 150 passengers and crew members were disembarked via normal procedures.
Official Statement from SpiceJet
A SpiceJet spokesperson confirmed the return, emphasizing that while a technical issue occurred, there was no cockpit fire warning:
“The aircraft landed safely in Delhi, and all passengers were disembarked normally. There was no fire warning in the cockpit. We are working to make alternative arrangements for the passengers to reach their destination.”
Aviation Safety in Focus
This incident adds to a string of technical setbacks for SpiceJet as the airline navigates its 2026 fleet expansion. The Leh route is considered one of the most challenging in India due to high altitude and thin air, making engine reliability particularly critical.
Flight Information Summary
| Category | Details |
| Flight Number | SG-121 |
| Route | New Delhi (DEL) to Leh (IXL) |
| Aircraft Type | Boeing 737 |
| Total Onboard | ~150 Passengers |
| Cause of Emergency | Engine Number 2 Failure |
| Outcome | Safe Landing; Normal Disembarkation |