Distress signal and landing in Almaty: Air Astana describes in-flight incident

Tengrinews.kz — Air Astana has commented on the situation involving flight KC851 on the Almaty–Astana route, which returned to the departure airport shortly after takeoff on the morning of December 17.

According to the airline, the decision to return was made by the crew “due to the appearance of an unusual smell from the air-conditioning system on board.”

“The aircraft returned to the departure airport on the crew’s decision due to the appearance of an unusual smell from the air-conditioning system on board. In order to ensure flight safety, the aircraft commander decided to return to Almaty. The landing was carried out normally at 07:40 AM,” the statement said.

The airline noted that passengers were provided with hot and cold drinks, as well as snacks. The flight to Astana will be operated on another aircraft at 10:15 AM. According to the carrier, a standard technical inspection procedure is being conducted in relation to the incident.

Earlier, on the morning of December 17, an Air Astana aircraft operating the scheduled flight KC851 on the Almaty–Astana route sent a distress signal and returned to the departure airport. The aircraft in question was an Airbus A321neo.

As previously reported, the crew declared a MAYDAY due to smoke in the cabin. The distress signal was transmitted at 07:38 Astana time. By 07:40 AM, the aircraft had landed safely at Almaty Airport.

According to preliminary information, there were no injuries among passengers or crew members. After landing, Almaty Airport’s fire and rescue service was deployed to ensure safety.

At present, the Department for the Investigation of Transport Accidents and Incidents is establishing the circumstances of what happened.

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