Airlines

Smelly onions cause an AirIndia Express flight to return after takeoff

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An unprecedented incident saw an airplane forced to return after takeoff as a result of a box of onions. A “pungent” and “burning” odour was reported to be present within the cabin of an Air India Express flight traveling from Kochi to Sharjah. On the evening of August 2, the flight (IX 411) from Kochi had about 175 passengers on board.

At first, only one passenger reported a “burning” smell, but soon others began to complain as well, describing a “pungent smell” within the aircraft. The plane conducted an emergency turnaround and safely landed at Cochin International Airport. No signs of smoke or technical issues were discovered during the engineering team’s inspection of the aircraft.

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After further inquiry, it was determined that a box of onions or vegetables being transported in the cargo hold area was probably the cause of the smell. It was believed that the smell surrounded the cabin as a result, making the passengers nervous and uncomfortable.

Air India Express apologized for the inconvenience and arranged for the passengers to board a different flight, which took off at 5.14 a.m.

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Large quantities of vegetables, fruits, and flowers are frequently transported by the airline in its cargo hold, providing a source of cash and support for farmers, especially when transporting produce to the Gulf nations.

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Airlines

PIA Reinstates Manchester and Paris Routes After EU Ban Lift

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced plans to resume flights to Europe starting in January, beginning with Paris as its first destination.

The decision follows the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) removal of a long-standing ban on the airline. PIA’s inaugural flight to Paris is scheduled for January 10, with bookings opening on December 9.

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In an official statement, PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan confirmed that the first flight schedule has been approved, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s recovery efforts. The EU ban had previously cost PIA approximately Rs40 billion ($144 million) annually in lost revenue, compounding its financial struggles.

With European operations restarting, PIA is now setting its sights on the United Kingdom. The airline plans to seek approval from the UK Department for Transport (DfT) to resume flights to major British cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

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These routes are anticipated to see high demand once necessary clearances are obtained. The lifting of the EU ban represents a key achievement for PIA as it works to rebuild its international network and regain its standing in the global aviation market.

By restoring flights to Europe and aiming for UK destinations, PIA is taking critical steps toward recovering lost ground and improving its financial outlook.