Authorities are currently investigating after a QantasLink flight was compelled to make an emergency landing in Adelaide following a mid-air incident.
The incident occurred on an E190 aircraft, flight number QF1972, which departed at approximately 6:10 am. Shortly into the flight, the crew declared an emergency.
Among the passengers was Senator Leah Blyth, who recounted a distressing scene shortly after the plane took off.
“The cabin was suddenly filled with a white smoke that had an electrical smell,” Blyth reported.
Passenger Amy shared her initial reaction, explaining, “At first, I thought the odor might be from breakfast being overcooked, but then we flew low over the ocean for around 20 minutes.”
The urgency of the situation was evident in audio recordings of the pilot’s communication with ground control.
“PAN-PAN, PAN-PAN. Q-LINK 1972. We’ve got smoke in the flight deck,” the pilot reported.
Ground control responded, “1972 if able you make a right turn and track to the field.”
As the pilot executed a U-turn to return to Adelaide Airport, other aircraft were affected.
A passenger on another plane recorded an announcement: “All stations, Adelaide ground, just to keep you up to date we have an aircraft with an emergency in the circuit area. There’ll be no further clearances given on ground until further advised.”
The plane landed safely and was towed away for inspection.
It is understood to be an electrical fire, although the investigations are ongoing.
Blyth commended the airline staff.
“Hats off to the Qantas staff. They stayed very very calm. The captain was keeping passengers informed the whole time,” Blyth said.
Passengers were placed on a replacement flight about two hours later, including three Liberal politicians en route to a party room meeting concerning climate change in Canberra.
