Turkish Airlines Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Kolkata After Engine Malfunction
A Turkish Airlines aircraft carrying 236 people executed a full emergency landing at Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on Wednesday afternoon following a critical engine malfunction shortly after departure from Kathmandu.
Timeline of the Incident
The flight, identified as THY-727 and operated by an Airbus A330-300, departed from Nepal's Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) at 1:29 pm local time, bound for Istanbul. Within just four minutes of takeoff, the flight crew detected a serious malfunction in the aircraft's right engine.
According to Gyanendra Bhul, deputy spokesperson for Nepal's Civil Aviation Authority (CAAN), the pilot immediately notified the Kathmandu air traffic control tower about the emergency situation and proceeded to shut down the affected engine as a precautionary measure.
Safe Landing in Kolkata
The aircraft successfully diverted to Kolkata, where it touched down safely at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport at 3:03 pm. Airport authorities had been alerted in advance and were prepared for the emergency landing, ensuring a smooth arrival despite the technical issues.
All 236 passengers and crew members aboard the flight were reported safe following the incident. The aircraft remains at Kolkata airport for thorough inspection and maintenance by technical teams.
Investigation and Response
Aviation authorities from both Nepal and India have initiated investigations into the engine malfunction. Preliminary reports suggest the issue was detected early enough for the crew to take appropriate safety measures, preventing a potentially more serious situation.
Turkish Airlines has acknowledged the incident and stated that passenger safety is their top priority. The airline is arranging alternative travel arrangements for affected passengers while the aircraft undergoes necessary repairs and safety checks.
This incident highlights the importance of:
- Regular aircraft maintenance and safety protocols
- Pilot training for emergency situations
- International cooperation between aviation authorities
- Effective communication systems during in-flight emergencies
The quick response by both the flight crew and ground authorities ensured a safe outcome for all involved, demonstrating the effectiveness of modern aviation safety systems and procedures.
