New Delhi: Indian aviation authorities took the unprecedented step of halting flight operations at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport in Imphal, Manipur, following reports of an Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) sighting on Sunday afternoon.
The incident, occurring around 2:30 pm local time, prompted immediate security measures and a suspension of airport operations. Officials confirmed the sighting was visible to the naked eye but vanished shortly afterward, triggering heightened concerns.
In response to the sighting, the Indian Air Force (IAF) activated its Air Defence system, deploying fighter jets from Hashimara airbase to investigate the reported UFO. Despite extensive searches, no evidence or traces were found.
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The situation caused the diversion of two incoming flights and delayed three departing flights as the airport remained on high alert. “Due to the sighting of an unidentified flying object within Imphal controlled airspace, two flights have been diverted and three departing flights have been delayed. Flight operations commence after receipt of clearance from the competent authority,” explained Airport Director Chipemmi Keishing.
Rafale fighter jets were scrambled from a nearby airbase to conduct an immediate search as soon as information about the UFO near Imphal airport surfaced, according to a statement from a defense official to news agency ANI.
The investigation continued for several hours, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Flights at the airport resumed only after 5:30 pm, following clearance from the Indian Air Force. The incident has sparked discussions about airspace security and surveillance measures in the region.
