Terrifying video showed flames shooting from the jet as it took off, forcing it to abruptly turn around for an emergency landing.
“Air Canada flight 217, a Boeing 737 Max, on a scheduled flight from Los Angeles to Vancouver, experienced an engine issue shortly after take-off. The aircraft landed normally and safely at 12:07 p.m. in Los Angeles,” an Air Canada spokesperson stated.
Upon landing safely back at the airport, the aircraft was met by emergency vehicles as a precautionary measure. No injuries were reported among the passengers or crew. The airline is currently investigating the cause of the engine problem and working to accommodate the affected passengers on alternative flights.
Air Canada announced that the plane will undergo a thorough inspection by their maintenance personnel and engineering team, resulting in its temporary removal from service.
The airline proceeded to accommodate the passengers on a different plane.
Notably, this marks the second occurrence within a span of approximately two weeks where an Air Canada aircraft departing from Pearson airport has encountered engine problems, necessitating a prompt return to the airport. A similar incident took place on May 27 during a flight from Toronto to Delhi, where engine issues forced the plane to return to Pearson airport shortly after takeoff.
The Boeing 737 Max has faced scrutiny in recent years following two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019. However, the aircraft has since undergone extensive safety reviews and modifications before being cleared to fly again by aviation authorities worldwide.