Malaysia Airlines flight diverted to Chennai after engine issue, full emergency declared

Chennai: A Malaysia Airlines flight travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Jeddah was diverted to Chennai on Monday after an engine-related technical issue, prompting the airport to declare a full emergency, an official said.

Malaysia Airlines flight MH 156, carrying 186 people, landed safely at Chennai International Airport, following which emergency response arrangements were activated, the official said.

"There was a technical issue involving Engine No: 2. The airline and relevant technical teams are carrying out further assessment of the aircraft and the issue," a spokesperson said, adding that operations are normal.

The aircraft was subsequently towed to a parking bay. Passengers were initially provided temporary accommodation at the airport before being shifted to a nearby hotel, sources said.

The flight is expected to continue its journey after engineers rectify the technical problem, they added.

In a separate incident, an Air India Express flight from Tiruchirappalli to Singapore was also diverted to Chennai International Airport following a technical issue.

Following the incident, a "local standby was declared" at Chennai airport, with emergency response teams and other operational agencies placed on alert.

The aircraft landed safely and cleared the runway under its own power.

Airport authorities said the necessary arrangements were put in place to ensure the aircraft's safe arrival following the local standby declaration.

The airline's engineering and technical teams are assessing the reported issue.

"All operations are normal," the official added.