aviation
SWISS Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Graz After Smoke Incident
A Swiss International Airlines Airbus carrying 74 passengers made an emergency landing in Graz, Austria following engine problems and smoke in the cabin, with multiple passengers requiring medical attention.
Emergency Landing Overview
A Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) Airbus A220-300 executed an emergency landing at Graz Airport, Austria, on Monday evening following serious technical complications. The aircraft, operating a scheduled flight from Bucharest to Zurich, encountered engine problems and reported smoke in both the cabin and cockpit, necessitating immediate emergency procedures. The flight was carrying 74 passengers and 5 crew members when the incident occurred. The emergency landing led to a temporary closure of Graz Airport, though the aircraft managed to land safely.
Passenger and Crew Impact
The incident resulted in multiple injuries requiring medical attention. In total, seventeen people were affected: twelve passengers and five crew members received medical treatment following the emergency landing. Most concerning was the condition of one crew member who required helicopter transport to a nearby hospital. The remaining passengers were attended to by the airport's crisis intervention team, providing immediate support and care following the traumatic experience.
Response and Investigation
SWISS Airlines immediately activated its emergency response protocols, working closely with local authorities at Graz Airport. The airline confirmed it has launched an intensive investigation to determine the exact cause of the engine problems and smoke incident. The Airbus A220-300 was safely removed from the runway for detailed technical examination. Aviation authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident, with SWISS maintaining transparent communication with all relevant stakeholders.
Travel Arrangements
Following the incident, SWISS Airlines took immediate steps to ensure passenger comfort and continuation of their journey. All affected passengers were provided with overnight accommodation in local Graz hotels. The airline arranged a special flight for the following morning to transport passengers to their original destination of Zurich. This swift response demonstrates SWISS's commitment to passenger care and service recovery in challenging situations.