AN AirAsia flight en route from Kuala Lumpur to Shenzhen, China, was forced to turn back and make an emergency landing at Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (KLIA2) after a fire broke out in the aircraft’s right engine.
The Airbus A320-216, carrying 171 passengers and crew, experienced a frightening incident late last night, but all on board were unharmed.
The Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) received an emergency call at 10:37pm, according to Ahmad Mukhlis Mukhtar, Assistant Director of Operations for JBPM Selangor.
In response, a team from the KLIA Fire and Rescue Station was immediately deployed, arriving at the scene at 10:45pm. with a crew of nine officers.
"The aircraft successfully completed its emergency landing at 12:08 a.m., with all 171 passengers and crew members safely onboard," Ahmad Mukhlis confirmed in a statement.
An initial inspection revealed that the fire had been caused by a burst in the "Pneumatic Ducting" system, which led to the engine fire. Fortunately, the aircraft’s fire suppression system had extinguished the blaze before the plane landed.
"Firefighters assisted with the safe evacuation of passengers and ensured that no further fire hazards were present before the operation was concluded," he added.
JBPM confirmed that the incident was handled safely, with no injuries reported, and the flight crew’s swift actions ensured the safety of everyone on board. - March 27, 2025
