SRINAGAR, May 21 -- A Srinagar-bound Indigo flight from Delhi with more than 220 people on board encountered sudden hailstorm leading to severe turbulence on Wednesday, prompting the pilot to report the "emergency" to air traffic control at Srinagar.

The flight later landed safely at 6:30pm, officials said.

"IndiGo flight 6E 2142 operating from Delhi to Srinagar encountered sudden hailstorm en route. The flight and cabin crew followed established protocol and the aircraft landed safely in Srinagar," the airline said in a statement later.

"The airport team attended to the customers after arrival of the aircraft, prioritizing their wellbeing and comfort. The aircraft will be released post necessary inspection and maintenance," it said. ...