A sudden rainstorm struck Terminal 2 (T2) of Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) on Sunday evening, causing significant damage to three Air India aircraft. The strong winds displaced ground support equipment, which then collided with the parked planes. As a result, one aircraft is grounded for repairs, while the other two are expected to resume operations soon.
**Unexpected Storm Causes Havoc at IGIA**
At approximately 4:40 pm on Sunday, June 7, 2026, IGIA’s T2 experienced a sudden and intense rainstorm. The storm’s strong winds moved a step ladder and a trestle—both belonging to IndiGo Engineering and Aircraft India Engineering—from their designated positions at the T2 parking stands. These unsecured pieces of ground support equipment then struck three parked Air India single-aisle aircraft, leading to varying degrees of damage. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/sudden-storm-3-air-india-aircraft-damaged-at-igia-by-ground-equipments/amp_articleshow/131569801.cms?utm_source=openai))
**Details of the Incident**
According to airport sources, the equipment was not secured adequately, allowing the powerful winds to displace them. The collision resulted in the grounding of the three affected aircraft for inspection and repairs. While one aircraft will require an extended period for repairs, the other two are anticipated to return to service within the week. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/sudden-storm-3-air-india-aircraft-damaged-at-igia-by-ground-equipments/amp_articleshow/131569801.cms?utm_source=openai))
**Lack of Weather Warning Raises Concerns**
The absence of a weather warning for the storm has raised questions among airline and airport officials. Advance weather alerts are crucial, as they enable ground staff to secure equipment and take necessary precautions to prevent such incidents. The unexpected nature of the storm highlights the challenges in predicting sudden weather changes and underscores the importance of preparedness. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/sudden-storm-3-air-india-aircraft-damaged-at-igia-by-ground-equipments/amp_articleshow/131569801.cms?utm_source=openai))
**Historical Context of Similar Incidents**
This incident is not the first of its kind at IGIA. In January 2026, an Air India Airbus A350, the flagship of the airline’s fleet, suffered engine damage after ingesting an unsecured baggage container while taxiing in dense fog. The container had toppled onto the taxiway due to a loose wheel on a container transporter. Such occurrences emphasize the need for stringent safety protocols and equipment security measures on the tarmac. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/fog-loose-wheel-and-fallen-container-how-air-india-airbus-a350-engine-was-damaged-at-delhi-airport/articleshow/126545921.cms?utm_source=openai))
**Impact on Air India Operations**
The grounding of these three aircraft has implications for Air India’s operations. While the airline has not specified the exact routes affected, the downtime of any aircraft can lead to scheduling adjustments and potential delays. Air India is working diligently to expedite repairs and minimize disruptions to its services.
**Broader Implications for Airport Safety**
This incident underscores the broader challenges airports face in managing ground operations during adverse weather conditions. Ensuring that all ground support equipment is securely fastened and that staff are trained to respond swiftly to unexpected weather events are critical steps in preventing such occurrences. Airports worldwide continually review and update their safety protocols to address these challenges effectively.
**Conclusion**
The sudden storm at IGIA’s Terminal 2 serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and its potential impact on aviation operations. While the immediate damage has been assessed and repair plans are in place, the incident highlights the importance of preparedness, timely weather warnings, and robust safety measures to safeguard both aircraft and ground personnel.
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