During takeoff on Monday, Fly Dubai flight FZ 576, a Boeing 737-800, from Kathmandu to Dubai encountered an engine issue. Witnesses in the Koteshwor, Imadol, and Patan region of Nepal reported hearing a loud noise and seeing fire on the plane as it took off.
The pilot was able to keep the plane in his hands and began working out the logistics of a safe landing. The flight crew debated whether to land at TIA, Kathmandu International Airport, New Delhi International Airport, or other nearby airports.
The flight operated normally and made its destination in accordance with the flight plan, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). At 9:59 p.m. local time, Kathmandu airport operations were resumed after being suspended due to the incident involving Fly Dubai Flight FZ576.
Due to the recent incident, more than six aircraft were kept in the air waiting to land. The landing process has begun for all of the canceled flights.
According to a representative for Fly Dubai, the flight from Kathmandu to Dubai experienced a bird strike during takeoff but continued normally after following standard procedure. At 00:14 local time, it safely touched down at Dubai International (DXB).
Over 50,000 people were reportedly following FZ576 at the time of the incident, according to FlightRadar. Social media videos suggested an engine problem right before takeoff.
At this time, it is unknown if any of the crew members or passengers were hurt during the incident. A statement on the subject has not yet been made by Fly Dubai, and the situation is still changing. Updates will be given as new data becomes available.
