A dramatic incident occurred on Austrian Airlines Flight OS434 when a severe hailstorm damaged the aircraft while approaching Vienna Airport. Despite the extensive damage to the plane’s nose and windscreen, the skilled pilots managed to land safely, ensuring the well-being of all passengers on board.

According to a statement released by Austrian Airlines, the Airbus A320 aircraft encountered a thunderstorm cell on approach to Vienna, which was not visible on the weather radar. As a result, the plane was pummeled by hail, causing significant damage to the two front cockpit windows, the nose of the aircraft (radome), and several panels.

The pilots declared a Mayday and quickly took action to ensure the safety of the passengers and crew. Despite the challenging conditions, they successfully landed the plane at Vienna-Schwechat Airport. All passengers on the flight were uninjured, thanks to the quick thinking and expertise of the pilots.

Austrian Airlines has stated that the safety of their passengers and crew is their top priority and has entrusted their technical team to conduct a thorough damage assessment of the aircraft. An investigation into the incident is likely to follow.