Normal flight operations at Manipur’s Imphal International Airport were disrupted on Sunday afternoon following the sighting of an unidentified flying object (UFO). The incident led to the diversion of two flights and delays for three others, impacting approximately 500 passengers.
Airport Director Chipemmi Keishing explained that the UFO sighting occurred within the controlled airspace of Imphal, prompting the diversion of flights and causing delays. The Air Traffic Control (ATC) received a message from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at 2:30 pm, alerting them to the presence of a UFO near the airport.
“The UFO was visible with the naked eye moving westwards of the airfield until 4 pm,” shared an official from the Air Traffic Control. The diverted flights included an Indigo flight originating from Kolkata, initially instructed to “hold overhead” before being rerouted to Guwahati after 25 minutes. Approximately 500 passengers on three outbound flights were stranded as a result of the sighting.
Operations at the airport were brought to a halt around 2:30 pm, with an uncertain atmosphere prevailing untilthe situation was resolved. The delay in receiving clearance affected the departure of flights, causing disruptions for travellers.
The Indian Air Force Eastern Command in Shillong was promptly informed of the development, indicating the seriousness of the situation. While there is no immediate clarification on the identity of the observed object, sources reveal that both the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) are collaboratively investigating the incident.
The joint examination aims to discern the nature and origin of the UFO, ensuring the safety and security of air travel in the region. Manipur, where the incident occurred, shares borders with Nagaland, Mizoram, and Assam, in addition to an international border with Myanmar to the east. The unusual sighting by CISF personnel prompted the suspension of operations and left passengers in a state of uncertainty.
The investigation by DGCA and IAF reflects the commitment to thoroughly examine such incidents for aviation safety and national security reasons. The resumption of normal flight operations after about three hours provided relief to stranded passengers and restored routine air travel at Imphal International Airport.
