 "SpiceJet plane hits stray buffalo during take-off")
A SpiceJet plane crashed into a stray buffalo during take-off from Surat although no passengers or crew were hurt, the plane's operator said on Friday.
The airline was forced to ground the Boeing 737 which suffered "substantial damages", it said.
SpiceJet said the buffalo, which was killed in the accident on Thursday evening, was "essentially invisible" against a dark background. Passengers on the Delhi-bound aircraft were transferred on to another plane, SpiceJet said.
"Stray animals are a growing menace in some airports," SpiceJet said in a statement.
"This incident has affected our regular operations and hence SpiceJet flights from Surat will now be suspended after this incident."
Poorly maintained fences at some Indian airports mean animals can stray onto runways.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app