Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Taherpur in West Bengal faced an unexpected hurdle on Saturday morning. The Prime Minister's helicopter was forced to abandon its landing attempt and return to its point of origin due to dangerously low visibility caused by dense fog.
Flight Disrupted by Adverse Weather
The incident occurred on December 20, 2025. The helicopter carrying the Prime Minister took off from Kolkata airport en route to Taherpur. However, upon reaching the designated helipad area, the pilots encountered a thick blanket of fog that severely reduced ground visibility.
Official reports confirmed that the aircraft hovered over the intended landing site for a period, assessing conditions. Ultimately, the decision was made for the chopper to execute a U-turn for safety reasons. The pilot then navigated back to the security of the Kolkata airport.
Safety First Protocol Followed
This action underscores the strict adherence to aviation safety protocols, especially for flights carrying the VVIP. Landing in poor visibility poses significant risks, and the decision to return is standard procedure under such circumstances. The Prime Minister's aircraft landed safely back at the airport without any incident.
The unexpected return has likely led to adjustments in the PM's itinerary for the day in West Bengal. Such weather-related disruptions, while uncommon for high-profile visits, highlight the challenges of winter logistics in parts of North India and eastern states where fog can be severe.
Context and Implications
This event brings attention to the logistical planning behind political tours and the paramount importance of security and safety. While the specific reasons for the visit to Taherpur were part of the original schedule, the abrupt change demonstrates how even the most meticulously planned programs are subject to nature's unpredictability.
The incident also spotlights the recurring issue of winter fog affecting transportation and schedules across the region, impacting everything from commercial flights to high-level political engagements.
