BREAKING: A regional Qantas flight, QF2079, was forced to make an emergency landing shortly after takeoff due to a significant wing flap issue. The plane, which was en route from Mildura to Melbourne, took off at 10:00 AM on July 22, 2023, but encountered technical difficulties that prompted its return.
The aircraft circled near Mildura for over an hour, as confirmed by Flightradar24 data, before executing a “priority landing” just after midday. A Qantas spokesperson stated that the pilots effectively managed the situation, ensuring the safety of the 63 passengers on board.
“Our pilots are highly trained to handle situations like this, and the flight has since landed safely in Mildura,” the spokesperson emphasized. “We appreciate this would have been an unsettling experience for customers and thank them for their understanding.”
Emergency services, including the Victoria Police, State Emergency Service (SES), and local fire services, were on standby and attended the scene promptly. Passengers have safely disembarked, and engineers are currently assessing the aircraft, a Dash 8 Q400.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety protocols in aviation. As investigations continue, Qantas reassures the public of their commitment to passenger safety.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as authorities continue to assess the situation and determine the next steps for the aircraft and its passengers.
