passenger safety Archives - Page 4 of 6

London, United Kingdom: A British Airways flight bound for the Caribbean was forced to make an unexpected U-turn over the Atlantic on Tuesday night, returning to London after nearly eight hours in the air. Flight BA2157 departed London Gatwick on September 30, scheduled to land in Antigua before continuing on to St. Kitts and Nevis. Midway through its journey, however, the aircraft turned back towards the UK. Data from flight tracking platforms, like Flightradar24, confirmed the unusual path, which saw the Boeing jet return to its point of departure instead of completing the transatlantic crossing due to pressure warning light on 2 tyres, the aircraft landed back at London Gatwick Airport at 16:22 BST, almost 8 hours after takeoff. Passengers on board were said to have remained calm during the diversion, and no medical emergencies have been reported so far. British Airways has not yet provided an explanation, and UK aviation regulators have also remained silent. Aviation observers have speculated about possible technical or operational reasons, but no official confirmation has been given. On September 28, 2025, a British Airways flight experienced an unexpected incident upon landing at Grenada's Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA). The aircraft, a Boeing 777-200 (registration G-VIIU), arrived from Saint Lucia but came to a complete stop on the runway after landing. There were no signs of distress during the approach, and the aircraft landed normally. However, it failed to move under its own power, prompting airport staff to tow it to a safer area. Passengers remained on board during the towing process, and no injuries or emergency procedures were reported

British Airways Flight Returns to London Mid-Atlantic Due to Tyre Pressure Issue

Aviation Today News Desk / October 1, 2025

London, United Kingdom: A British Airways flight bound for the Caribbean was forced to make an unexpected U-turn over the […]

London, United Kingdom: United Airlines Flight UA939, a Boeing 777-200ER operating from London Heathrow to San Francisco, was forced to return to its departure airport on Sunday evening due to a technical issue with its right-hand engine. The flight, scheduled to last roughly ten hours, declared an emergency shortly after takeoff to ensure passenger safety. The aircraft departed London Heathrow at 16:21 BST but less than an hour into its journey the crew identified a mechanical problem. Following standard safety protocols, the pilots decided to hold the aircraft at 31,000 feet while preparing for a safe return to London. Fuel was dumped to make landing safer to reduce landing weight, a routine procedure in such emergencies. By 17:50 BST, the aircraft had completed the fuel-dumping process and began its descent back to Heathrow. No injuries have been reported. The flight UA939 was delayed by approximately 2 hours and 53 minutes.

Incidents

United Airlines Flight UA939 Makes Emergency Return to London After Engine Issue

Aviation Today News Desk / September 29, 2025

London, United Kingdom: United Airlines Flight UA939, a Boeing 777-200ER operating from London Heathrow to San Francisco, was forced to

Varanasi, India: A scheduled Akasa Air flight QP 1424, from Varanasi to Bengaluru failed to depart at 7:55 PM on Thursday, leaving 143 passengers stranded overnight in Varanasi following a technical issue. The flight had already been boarded when the problem surfaced. The aircraft was being pushed back from the gate toward the runway when the pilot was alerted to a fault. As a precautionary measure, the pushback was halted and the aircraft returned to the apron for further inspection. The airline’s technical crew attempted repairs for approximately three hours, but the fault could not be fixed. By around 11:30 p.m., the airline announced that the service would not operate. Passengers waited for several hours at the airport before being informed of the cancellation. Subsequently, Akasa Air made arrangements to accommodate the affected passengers in nearby hotels for the night. An Akasa Air spokesperson said “Passengers who chose alternate flight options were provided airport transfers and refreshments. At Akasa Air, passenger safety and comfort are paramount, and we deeply regret the inconvenience caused.” Authorities and airline officials have yet to release a public statement explaining the precise nature of the technical fault. No further updates regarding compensation or rebooking timelines have been formally communicated.

Incidents

Akasa Air Flight Cancelled After Technical Glitch, 143 Passengers Stranded Overnight

Aviation Today News Desk / September 27, 2025

Varanasi, India: A scheduled Akasa Air flight QP 1424, from Varanasi to Bengaluru failed to depart at 7:55 PM on

Washington, United States: The family of a passenger killed in January’s midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport has filed the first federal lawsuit over the disaster, naming American Airlines, its regional affiliate PSA Airlines, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the U.S. Army as defendants. The complaint, filed Tuesday in U.S. District Court, comes from Rachel Crafton, whose husband, Casey Crafton, was among the 67 people killed when American Eagle Flight 5342 collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter on January 29. The crash, which occurred at low altitude just half a mile from the runway, killed all 64 people aboard the Embraer E175 regional jet and all three Army crew members on the helicopter. Crafton’s lawsuit accuses the defendants of negligence and wrongful death, arguing that the tragedy was both predictable and preventable. The 115-page filing cites more than 30 documented near misses in the crowded D.C. airspace that, according to the suit, were ignored by regulators and operators. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) preliminary findings indicate insufficient vertical separation, estimated at just 75 feet, and highlight a history of over 15,000 near-misses between aircraft and helicopters in the area from 2021 to 2024, many occurring at night or above designated altitudes. The NTSB has recommended that the FAA restrict helicopter operations near DCA during active runway use and designate safer routes to prevent future collisions. The full investigation is ongoing, with a final report expected in 2026. “The defendants utterly failed in their responsibilities to protect passengers, crew, and the public,” the complaint alleges. It further faults American and PSA for inadequate pilot training, the FAA for failing to redesign or better monitor congested flight paths into Reagan National, and the Army for not preventing its aircraft from entering civilian approach corridors. The suit also highlights alleged air traffic control failures, including the absence of timely safety alerts that could have helped avoid the collision. This federal filing follows earlier Federal Tort Claims Act notices submitted by Crafton in February, seeking $250 million in damages from the FAA and the Army. Those claims are a legal prerequisite to suing the U.S. government, which typically enjoys sovereign immunity unless exceptions apply. The FAA responded with a statement of condolences, noting that it had “acted decisively” since the crash to improve safety over the capital region and pledged full cooperation with the ongoing National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation. The Army declined to comment, citing the active investigation, but said it remains focused on supporting victims’ families. American Airlines and PSA signaled they would defend themselves in court, pointing to their overall safety record. The Crafton case is expected to be a bellwether lawsuit, with other families of victims likely to join or file their own claims in the coming months. The NTSB’s final accident report, expected in 2026, will likely shape the scope of liability across all parties.

Investigation

Widow of Passenger Sues American Airlines, FAA, Army Over Deadly D.C. Collision

Aviation Today News Desk / September 25, 2025

Washington, United States: The family of a passenger killed in January’s midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport has

San Francisco, United States: An Emirates flight from San Francisco to Dubai was delayed for more than three hours after several Indian passengers requested to disembark, alarmed by reports of a new U.S. executive order introducing a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applicants. Flight EK226, operated by an Airbus A380, was due to depart San Francisco International Airport at 5:05 p.m. on September 19. According to eyewitness accounts cited by Paddle Your Own Kanoo, panic spread through the cabin shortly before takeoff as passengers received news updates about the policy. Many expressed fears that the new rule could prevent them from re-entering the United States. The situation escalated to the point where the aircraft’s captain made an onboard announcement, acknowledging the unusual circumstances and informing passengers that anyone wishing to leave could do so. Some accepted the offer, prompting ground staff to locate and remove their baggage from the aircraft, a process that extended the delay. Eventually, the flight departed at approximately 8:45 p.m., more than three hours behind schedule. The disruption followed news of a new executive order signed by the U.S. President Donald Trump, requiring new H-1B visa applicants to pay a $100,000 processing fee. While White House officials have since clarified that the fee applies only to new petitions and not to existing visa holders or renewals, uncertainty quickly spread among travelers. The confusion was particularly acute among Indian nationals, who make up more than 70 percent of H-1B visa holders in the United States. Many of those onboard EK226 were reportedly concerned that leaving the U.S. might jeopardize their legal status or future employment. The White House has clarified that the $100,000 fee applies solely to new H‑1B visa applicants on a one-time basis. Nevertheless, many observers suggest that this steep charge could effectively make the H‑1B visa an impractical option for most foreign workers seeking entry to the United States.

Airlines

Emirates Flight From San Francisco Delayed as $100K H‑1B Visa Fee Triggers Panic

Aviation Today News Desk / September 22, 2025

San Francisco, United States: An Emirates flight from San Francisco to Dubai was delayed for more than three hours after

Chennai, India: An IndiGo flight traveling from Mumbai to Phuket was forced to make an emergency landing in Chennai on Thursday following a bomb scare, authorities confirmed. The Airbus A320 aircraft, operating flight 6E 1089, was carrying 176 passengers and six crew members when the threat was identified mid-air. The flight departed Mumbai at 3:33 PM and was over the Bay of Bengal when the crew was alerted to a possible explosive device in the aircraft's lavatory. The pilot promptly diverted the aircraft to Chennai, ensuring a safe landing at 7:20 PM local time. Passengers were safely deboarded and moved to the airport lounge as security procedures were initiated. Following the landing, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) deployed its bomb disposal unit along with sniffer dogs to thoroughly inspect the aircraft. The investigation revealed that the threat was a hoax. Officials continue to investigate the origin of the threatening email and are working to identify the individual responsible. Due to a night curfew at Phuket airport, the flight’s onward journey was postponed until later in the evening. IndiGo assured passengers that efforts were being made to minimize inconvenience, including providing refreshments and continuous updates throughout the delay. Months ago, on April 8 2025 an IndiGo flight operating from Jaipur to Mumbai was forced to make an emergency landing at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) on Monday evening after a bomb threat note was discovered onboard. The aircraft, flight 6E 5324, was carrying 225 passengers and landed safely at approximately 8:50 p.m. Once the plane landed, it was promptly guided to a remote bay for a comprehensive security sweep. Passengers were then safely disembarked under the careful supervision of security personnel.

Incidents

Bomb Scare Forces IndiGo Flight from Mumbai to Phuket to Divert to Chennai

Aviation Today News Desk / September 21, 2025

Chennai, India: An IndiGo flight traveling from Mumbai to Phuket was forced to make an emergency landing in Chennai on

Vishakhapatnam, India: An Air India Express flight bound for Hyderabad was forced to make an emergency landing at Visakhapatnam (Vizag) airport on Thursday afternoon after a suspected bird strike caused engine trouble shortly after takeoff. Flight IX 2658, operated by Air India Express, departed Vizag around 2:38 PM with 103 passengers onboard. About 10 nautical miles into its climb, the pilots detected abnormal vibrations in one of the engines and suspected a bird strike. Following standard safety protocols, the commander immediately contacted Air Traffic Control and requested clearance to return. The aircraft made a precautionary landing back at Visakhapatnam airport at approximately 3:00 PM. Emergency services were placed on standby, but the landing was completed without incident. All passengers were safely deboarded, and no injuries were reported. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been informed of the incident, and engineers are carrying out a detailed inspection to confirm the extent of the damage and verify whether a bird strike was indeed the cause of the engine trouble. Air India Express released a statement assuring that passenger safety was never compromised. The airline confirmed that alternative arrangements, including rebooking on later flights and refund options, were being provided to affected passengers. The flight, however, has been cancelled pending safety clearance of the aircraft.

Incidents

Air India Express Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Vizag After Suspected Bird Strike

Aviation Today News Desk / September 20, 2025

Vishakhapatnam, India: An Air India Express flight bound for Hyderabad was forced to make an emergency landing at Visakhapatnam (Vizag)

Boeing

FAA Slaps Boeing With $3.1M Penalty for Over Safety Lapses in 737 Production

Aviation Today News Desk / September 15, 2025

Washington, United States: The U.S. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed a civil penalty of $3.1 million against Boeing

Los Angeles, United States: Southwest Airlines Flight 1394, a Boeing 737-700, safely diverted to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) after experiencing an engine failure shortly after departing Hollywood Burbank Airport on the morning of September 11, 2025. The flight was en route to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport when the issue occurred. According to the airline, the flight crew promptly identified the mechanical issue and executed an emergency diversion to LAX, where the aircraft landed safely at approximately 8:15 a.m. local time. There were no injuries reported among the passengers or crew, and the aircraft taxied to a gate without further incident. Southwest Airlines confirmed that all passengers were accommodated on alternate flights to reach their intended destination. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the engine failure to determine the cause and ensure compliance with safety regulations. No official FAA or NTSB statement has yet confirmed the detailed technical cause. Prior to this, on July 18, 2025, Delta Airlines Flight 446, a Boeing 767, experienced an engine fire shortly after takeoff from LAX. The aircraft returned to the airport and made an emergency landing. Emergency crews responded promptly, and all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated via emergency slides. No injuries were reported.

Incidents

Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-700 Makes Emergency Landing at LAX Due To Engine Issue

Aviation Today News Desk / September 13, 2025

Los Angeles, United States: Southwest Airlines Flight 1394, a Boeing 737-700, safely diverted to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) after

Mumbai, India: A major aviation scare unfolded on Friday afternoon when a SpiceJet Bombardier Q400 aircraft operating flight SG 2906 from Kandla to Mumbai lost one of its main landing gear wheels shortly after take-off. The aircraft, carrying 75 passengers and crew, landed safely at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) under full emergency protocol, averting a potential disaster. According to airport authorities at Kandla, air traffic controllers spotted an object falling off the aircraft during take-off around 2:38 pm. Upon closer inspection, officials confirmed that it was the outer wheel of the right rear landing gear, along with metal rings that rolled off the runway. The parts were later recovered for investigation. Despite the wheel loss, the pilots continued to Mumbai after coordinating with air traffic control. A full emergency was declared at Mumbai airport, where firefighting and rescue teams were positioned near the runway. The aircraft landed at 3:51 pm on Runway 27, taxied under its own power, and parked safely. All passengers disembarked without incident. A SpiceJet spokesperson confirmed the incident, stating that the airline is cooperating with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for a detailed probe. “The safety of our passengers and crew remains our highest priority. The affected aircraft has been grounded pending thorough inspection,” the airline said in a statement. Aviation experts suggest several possible causes for such a wheel detachment, including failure of the locking mechanism, loose axle nuts, bearing issues, or material fatigue. The Q400’s landing gear has dual wheels on each side, which allowed the pilots to land with reduced but adequate braking capability. Operations at Mumbai airport resumed shortly after the aircraft was cleared from the runway. No further delays were reported. The DGCA has initiated an inquiry to determine whether the incident was due to a maintenance lapse, manufacturing defect, or operational issue. Preliminary findings are expected in the coming days.

Incidents

SpiceJet Flight Lands Safely in Mumbai After Wheel Loss Mid-Flight, DGCA Investigates

Aviation Today News Desk / September 13, 2025

Mumbai, India: A major aviation scare unfolded on Friday afternoon when a SpiceJet Bombardier Q400 aircraft operating flight SG 2906

passenger safety

British Airways Flight Returns to London Mid-Atlantic Due to Tyre Pressure Issue

United Airlines Flight UA939 Makes Emergency Return to London After Engine Issue

Akasa Air Flight Cancelled After Technical Glitch, 143 Passengers Stranded Overnight

Widow of Passenger Sues American Airlines, FAA, Army Over Deadly D.C. Collision

Emirates Flight From San Francisco Delayed as $100K H‑1B Visa Fee Triggers Panic

Bomb Scare Forces IndiGo Flight from Mumbai to Phuket to Divert to Chennai

Air India Express Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Vizag After Suspected Bird Strike

FAA Slaps Boeing With $3.1M Penalty for Over Safety Lapses in 737 Production

Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-700 Makes Emergency Landing at LAX Due To Engine Issue

SpiceJet Flight Lands Safely in Mumbai After Wheel Loss Mid-Flight, DGCA Investigates

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