An Air Canada flight bound for Paris, carrying nearly 400 passengers, was forced to return to Toronto Pearson International Airport on Wednesday night due to an engine issue shortly after takeoff.
The incident involved Air Canada flight AC872, which departed from Toronto Pearson International Airport but encountered a severe problem described initially as “an engine issue.” Startling videos posted on various social media platforms revealed the true nature of the problem: the plane’s right engine caught fire immediately after takeoff.
The flight crew promptly declared “PAN-PAN,” an international distress signal indicating ‘Possible Assistance Needed,’ and managed to avert a potential catastrophe. The aircraft returned to the airport safely without any injuries or casualties.
The Boeing 777 aircraft had 389 passengers on board during the incident. Air Canada made arrangements to accommodate the passengers them and place them on another flight to Paris same night.
Officials at Toronto Pearson International Airport confirmed that the plane landed safely and was met by the fire department as a precautionary measure. Safety protocols were meticulously followed to ensure the well-being of all passengers and crew.
This is not the first time within the last month that Air Canada planes experienced technical issues, including a flight from Montreal to Lyon that had to return to the airport due to plane depressurization.
Air Canada is also involved in a work contract dispute with its pilots and this year fell to the bottom of the list of North American airlines when it comes to customer satisfaction.