Turkish Airlines Flight Makes Emergency Landing at Kolkata Airport Following Engine Fire Alert
A Turkish Airlines flight operating from Kathmandu to Istanbul was forced to make an emergency landing at Kolkata's Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (NSCBI) on Tuesday after the pilot reported a possible fire in the aircraft's right engine. The incident, which involved flight TK 727, occurred with 236 passengers on board, all of whom are reported to be safe and unharmed.
Details of the Emergency Landing
According to the Airport Director of NSCBI Airport in Kolkata, the captain of the Turkish Airlines flight alerted Kolkata Air Traffic Control (ATC) about a suspected fire in the right engine. In response, a full emergency was declared, and the aircraft successfully landed at Kolkata airport at 14:49 hours. The swift action by the flight crew and airport authorities ensured a safe touchdown, with no immediate reports of injuries or damage beyond the engine issue.
Current Status and Inspection
The aircraft remains parked at Kolkata airport as of the latest updates, with a thorough inspection currently underway to assess the extent of the engine problem and determine the cause of the fire alert. Airport officials have confirmed that all passengers have been safely disembarked and are being assisted by airline staff. The investigation is expected to provide more clarity on whether there was an actual fire or a false alarm triggered by sensor issues.
Background and Implications
This emergency landing highlights the critical importance of aviation safety protocols and quick decision-making in such scenarios. Turkish Airlines, a major international carrier, has a strong safety record, and incidents like this are rare but underscore the need for constant vigilance. The flight was en route from Kathmandu, Nepal, to Istanbul, Turkey, a popular route for travelers connecting to Europe and beyond, making this event of significant interest to the aviation community and passengers alike.
Authorities are working closely with Turkish Airlines to ensure a smooth resolution, including potential arrangements for passengers to continue their journey. Updates on the inspection findings and any operational impacts are awaited as the situation develops.
