AirAsia flight to China turns back due to engine fire, lands safely

File photo

An AirAsia flight bound for China returned to Kuala Lumpur due to an engine fire shortly after takeoff and landed safely with no injuries reported, Malaysian authorities said on Thursday.

Flight AK128 on an Airbus, was en route to Shenzhen but turned back to Kuala Lumpur International Airport after a "pneumatic ducting burst" caused a fire in the right engine shortly after its 9:59 pm (1359 GMT) departure on Wednesday, the Selangor state fire department said in a statement.

The fire was completely extinguished by the plane's in-built system before it landed safely slightly after midnight, the department said, adding all 171 passengers and crew were unharmed.

Fire department personnel ensured passengers and crew exited the aircraft and checks were made to ensure no further fires erupted, the department said.

AirAsia's parent company, Capital A, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

More from International

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Score

    7:00pm - 9:00pm

    Hosted by Chris McHardy, The Score is your comprehensive guide to the world of sport.

  • The Music Mix

    9:00pm - 11:00pm

    Enjoy your favourite music back to back commercial free, tune in to the Music Mix everyday from 1 until 2 for the music you love and the news updates you need

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!