Kuala Lumpur: AirAsia has confirmed that there was no engine fire on flight AK128, which performed a safe air return to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 2 this morning, approximately two hours after takeoff.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, AirAsia clarified in a statement that the flight en route to Shenzhen, China, on Wednesday returned due to a technical issue in one of the engines that triggered an abnormal indication. “AirAsia confirms that there was no engine fire,” the statement emphasized.

Upon inspection, it was found that the issue stemmed from a damaged duct that caused hot air to be released, necessitating the aircraft’s return for rectification. The statement mentioned that the aircraft is expected to return to service on March 31.

Throughout the incident, the pilots adhered to established procedures for the indication and requested a priority landing to ensure the safety of all guests and crew on board. The aircraft landed without incident at KLIA Terminal 2 at 12:06 am, and all 171 guests and six crew members disembarked safely. They were then transferred to another aircraft, which departed at 3:46 am and arrived at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport at 7:51 am on March 27.

Deputy Group CEO (Airline Operations) AirAsia Aviation Group Datuk Captain Chester Voo also addressed recent media reports, clarifying that there was no engine fire on flight AK128. He explained that the flight crew acted swiftly and followed established safety and operational protocols in response to the abnormal indication.

Voo expressed gratitude to Malaysia Airports, the Airport Fire and Rescue Service team, and relevant safety authorities for their swift response and cooperation. He also thanked the passengers of flight AK128 for their understanding and patience, ensuring that a replacement flight was promptly arranged.

Safety remains AirAsia’s top priority, and the airline is committed to upholding the highest safety standards to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew at all times.