Firecrackers at Rajkot Airport Trigger Runway Fire, Divert Delhi Flight

A fire triggered by firecrackers used to scare away birds at Rajkot’s Hirasar International Airport forced a Delhi-bound flight to divert to Vadodara on 29 October, disrupting operations and raising concerns about bird-control practices near airport runways.

According to local media reports, firecrackers ignited grass near the runway, producing smoke that reduced visibility. The incoming flight reportedly circled before being diverted as a precaution. It later returned to Rajkot after the runway area was cleared, with the aircraft landing safely following a delay of around 90 minutes. Around 100 passengers were reportedly on board. <Cite refs={[“turn135900search1″,”turn135900search0”]}/>

The incident highlights the operational risks associated with methods used to disperse birds around airports, particularly when they create a secondary hazard such as fire or smoke.

The fire reportedly began after firecrackers were set off to scare birds away from the airport area. The resulting flames and smoke affected visibility around the runway, prompting the diversion of the incoming Delhi–Rajkot service to Vadodara.

This story was originally published by CargoTalk. Read the full story at CargoTalk →