A potentially serious aviation incident was averted on February 4, 2026, when a Turkish Airlines passenger aircraft travelling from Kathmandu to Istanbul made a precautionary emergency landing at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata following a suspected fire alert in its right engine. Swift decision-making by the flight crew and coordinated emergency preparedness on the ground ensured the safety of all 236 passengers and 11 crew members on board.
The incident highlighted the robustness of modern aviation safety systems and the critical importance of strict adherence to established emergency procedures. Officials described the event as a textbook example of how timely action, effective communication, and technical preparedness can successfully mitigate in-flight risks.
Mid-air alert and controlled diversion after engine warning
According to officials from the civil aviation ministry, the flight crew declared an emergency at approximately 1:38 pm by issuing the international distress signal “pan pan.” This signal is used to indicate an urgent situation that remains under control. The alert was raised shortly after the aircraft departed from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, when cockpit indicators suggested a possible fire in the right engine.
Recognising the potential risk, the pilots immediately followed standard safety protocols and shut down the affected engine. They then assessed the available options and decided to divert the aircraft to the nearest suitable airport capable of handling an emergency landing. Kolkata was selected due to its proximity, operational readiness, and favourable conditions.
Despite operating on a single engine for over an hour, the aircraft maintained stability throughout the diversion. The flight crew remained in constant contact with air traffic control, closely monitoring all systems and ensuring that the descent and approach were conducted in a controlled and secure manner.
Full emergency response in kolkata and safe landing
Once authorities at Kolkata airport were informed of the incoming emergency diversion, full-scale emergency protocols were activated well in advance of the aircraft’s arrival. Fire tenders, medical personnel, and technical teams were positioned strategically along the runway to respond immediately if required.
The aircraft touched down safely at around 2:50 pm without any complications. Fire services conducted an immediate inspection of the engine area and surrounding sections of the aircraft. Initial assessments confirmed that there was no active fire at the time of landing, allowing officials to declare the situation under control shortly thereafter.
The aircraft was then guided to a designated isolation bay, where passengers and crew were calmly and safely disembarked. All 247 individuals on board were confirmed to be unharmed. Airline staff assisted passengers on the ground while alternative travel arrangements were reviewed and assessed.
Aviation safety authorities have since initiated a routine technical investigation to determine the precise cause of the engine malfunction. Officials emphasised that such reviews are standard practice following any emergency declaration and are essential for maintaining the highest safety standards.
Airport officials and aviation experts commended the flight crew for their professionalism and timely judgement. They noted that strict adherence to emergency procedures, combined with effective coordination between cockpit and ground teams, played a decisive role in preventing any loss of life or injury. The incident once again underscored the reliability of modern aviation safety frameworks and the importance of continuous training and preparedness.
