Turkish Airlines Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Kolkata After Engine Fire Incident
A Turkish Airlines aircraft operating a flight from Kathmandu, Nepal, to Istanbul, Turkey, was forced to make an emergency landing at Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on Thursday. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, when the aircraft's right engine reportedly caught fire.
Sequence of Events and Immediate Response
According to preliminary reports, the flight, identified as Turkish Airlines Flight TK-726, departed Kathmandu at approximately 10:30 AM local time. Within minutes of becoming airborne, the pilots detected an anomaly in the right engine, which was later confirmed to be a fire. Following standard emergency protocols, the crew immediately declared an emergency and requested priority clearance to divert to the nearest suitable airport.
Air traffic controllers in the region coordinated swiftly, directing the aircraft to Kolkata, which was the closest major international airport with adequate facilities to handle such an emergency. The flight landed safely at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport around 11:15 AM IST. Emergency services, including fire tenders and medical teams, were placed on high alert and stationed along the runway as a precautionary measure.
Passenger Safety and Aircraft Status
All 189 passengers and 12 crew members on board were safely evacuated after landing. Initial assessments indicate that there were no injuries reported among those on board. Passengers were provided with assistance by airport authorities and airline staff. The aircraft, an Airbus A330, has been towed to a remote parking bay for a thorough technical inspection by engineers from Turkish Airlines and local aviation authorities.
An investigation into the cause of the engine fire has been initiated. Experts suggest that possible factors could include a technical malfunction, bird strike, or fuel system issue, though official findings are awaited. The incident has temporarily affected flight operations at Kolkata airport, with some delays reported as authorities managed the emergency situation.
Broader Implications and Reactions
This event highlights the critical importance of rigorous safety protocols and pilot training in aviation. Turkish Airlines, in an official statement, expressed gratitude for the swift response of the crew and ground teams, emphasizing that passenger safety remains their top priority. The airline has arranged alternative travel arrangements for affected passengers.
Aviation regulators are likely to review the incident to ensure compliance with international safety standards. For travelers, it serves as a reminder of the robust emergency procedures in place within the aviation industry to handle such unforeseen events efficiently.
