Engine bursts into flames mid-air, passengers experience 'terrifying ordeal'   AirAsia: Technical issue

Reporter Chen Ziying / Comprehensive report

An AirAsia flight AK1519 bound for Sabah caught fire shortly after takeoff from Taoyuan Airport this (28th) morning, forcing an emergency return. The 133 passengers on board were left shaken. In response, AirAsia issued an official statement, attributing the incident to a "technical issue," while the actual cause of the accident is still under investigation. The airline also emphasized that airport operations and other flights were not affected by the incident.

AirAsia has just released the following statement:

In response to reports about the AirAsia flight accident from Taipei to Kota Kinabalu, AirAsia would like to issue the following statement—

AirAsia wishes to state that Flight AK1519 from Taipei to Kota Kinabalu returned to Taipei due to a technical issue. There were 133 passengers on board, and the aircraft landed safely. The decision to return to Taipei was made out of safety considerations to ensure the well-being of passengers and cabin crew. The AirAsia team is currently investigating the cause of the incident. AirAsia also confirms that airport operations and other flights were not affected by the accident.

AirAsia ground staff are also providing necessary assistance to the affected passengers.


▲ Regarding this morning’s alarming engine fire and emergency return, AirAsia stated that the incident was due to a “technical issue.” (Photo / File photo, taken by reporter You...)