Indian Evacuee Describes Terrifying Mid-Air Missile Sighting During Qatar Flight
When Surender Kala, a resident of Mayna village in Rohtak, Haryana, boarded a flight from Qatar's capital Doha this weekend, he believed the most dangerous part of his evacuation was over. "That was not the case," revealed Surender, who finally landed home safely on Tuesday after a harrowing journey that involved direct sightings of military missile activity from his aircraft window.
Panic in the Skies as Passengers Witness Missile Launches
"On the plane, I looked out of the window and saw missiles midflight," Surender described the terrifying moment that unfolded shortly after takeoff. Like every other passenger on the aircraft carrying Indian nationals back to Delhi, Kala was immediately gripped by fear. "We were terrified and everyone was in panic. Some passengers even recorded videos," he recounted, painting a vivid picture of the cabin atmosphere.
He added that despite ceasefire announcements reportedly made by US leadership, missile attacks by Iran toward neighboring regions appeared to be continuing unabated. "There were repeated missile launches and significant damage already occurred. Seeing missiles mid-air created panic among passengers," Surender emphasized, highlighting the disconnect between diplomatic statements and ground realities.
Pilot's Quick Thinking Ensures Safe Return Amid Danger
According to Surender's account, the flight experienced considerable turbulence during the journey, compounding the passengers' anxiety. However, he credited the pilot's exceptional presence of mind with ensuring their ultimate safety. "The captain diverted the aircraft and took a longer route to avoid danger, and we eventually landed safely in India. Only after landing did everyone feel relieved," he explained, acknowledging the crew's professionalism under extreme pressure.
Surender recalled that passengers had initially boarded the flight with happiness and hope, anticipating a safe return to their homeland. "People remained anxious throughout the journey. There was a sense of relief only after reaching India," he said, describing how the visible missile activity immediately transformed the cabin mood from hopeful to fearful.
Earlier Missile Activity Had Already Created Fear Among Indian Community
The evacuee also revealed that missile activity had been visible in the region for days prior to their departure. "On Feb 28, missiles were seen in the sky, after which fear spread among Indians staying there. Sounds of bombardment were frequent, and smoke from missiles was visible. The strikes were happening around 40km from our hotel," he disclosed, providing context about the escalating security situation that prompted their evacuation.
Five Haryana Natives Successfully Evacuated from Qatar
Five residents from Haryana who had been stranded in Qatar have now safely returned to India through coordinated evacuation efforts. The group includes:
- Surender Kala from Mayna village in Rohtak
- Paras from Ambala district
- Mandeep from Kaithal district
- Ravi from Panipat district
- Amit from Sonipat district
Their safe return marks a successful evacuation operation amid increasingly volatile regional tensions that have seen multiple nations adjusting their military postures and security protocols. The incident highlights the challenges faced by civilian aviation during active conflict zones and the importance of experienced flight crews in navigating such dangerous situations.
