A routine SpiceJet flight from Goa to Pune turned tense on Tuesday evening after an internal window panel dislodged mid-air, triggering panic among the passengers. A video captured by a passenger showed the loose window frame as the plane was mid-air.
The frame was fixed once the aircraft landed safely at Pune airport.
Passengers recounted moments of fear, with some even suspecting a major technical failure. One passenger shared a video showing the detached frame and expressed concern over safety protocols. “There was a lady with a baby in that row. Everyone around got scared when the panel popped out. We thought the window was breaking,” the passenger said.
Airline Responds
SpiceJet clarified that the dislodged component was a non-structural, cosmetic panel. It posed no risk to the cabin's pressurization and passengers' safety was not compromised.
In a statement, the airline said:
“A cosmetic window frame on one of SpiceJet's Q400 aircraft became loose during flight and was found dislodged. It is important to note that this was a non-structural trim component, fitted onto the window for the purpose of shade, and did not compromise the safety or integrity of the aircraft in any way.”
“Cabin pressurisation remained normal throughout the flight, and there was no impact on passenger safety,” it said.
"The Q400 aircraft is equipped with multiple layers of window panes, including a robust, pressure-bearing outer pane, ensuring that passenger safety is never at risk, even in the unlikely event of a superficial or cosmetic component coming loose. The frame was fixed upon landing at the next station, in accordance with standard maintenance procedures," the airline further said.