WHAT was expected to be a straightforward 50-minute domestic flight became an extended overnight ordeal due to adverse weather, with passengers eventually landing safely in Kuala Lumpur nearly four hours after departure.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the incident occurred on AirAsia flight AK6047, which departed from Senai International Airport in Johor Bahru at 10.45 pm following a DAP Johor fundraising dinner attended by one of the passengers, who shared the experience.
“Everything was normal and went smoothly until the descent stage, where the aircraft passed through heavy clouds and thunderstorms,” Loke recounted.
As the aircraft approached Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), it encountered strong crosswinds and stormy conditions, prompting the pilot to abort the landing. The plane circled the KLIA airspace, awaiting improved conditions.
“I was later informed at least five AirAsia flights were diverted and probably many others too,” Loke said, noting that sudden weather changes remain one of the biggest operational challenges for airlines.
Captain Teng Huah Jer, in command of the flight, made the decision to divert to Penang International Airport for refuelling and to await clearer skies for a safe landing in KLIA.
“The Captain managed the situation very well by communicating very calmly to the passengers and kept the information updated regularly. Clear communication and information from the Captain played an important role to keep everyone calm in such situations,” he said in a Facebook post.
The flight eventually landed at KLIA at 2.40 am. Despite the long delay, the passenger lauded the professionalism and care shown by the cabin crew throughout the ordeal.
“I also wish to commend the entire crew for tirelessly supporting passengers who are in need. The crew remained composed, compassionate, and professional — assisting passengers with care and empathy. Even though they had to put in extra hours, they kept their smiles and professionalism intact, and apologised to each and every passenger for the inconveniences.”
The crew named in the commendation included First Officer Bryan Alexander Yin Kian Yam, Senior Cabin Crew Muhammad Asyraf Muhammad Nasrullah, and Cabin Crew Mandasari Nikita Florensia, Bagus Setyadi Nugroho, and Norjuniza Muhammad.
“A big shoutout to ground handlers, air traffic controllers and the many support staff who are the unsung heroes from Senai, Penang through KLIA, for your swift and coordinated responses that brought us home safely,” the passenger added.
As a gesture of appreciation, the passenger chose to remain on board until all other passengers had disembarked. - June 8, 2025
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