A terrifying incident unfolded just ten minutes after an aircraft took off from Bucharest Airport when the cabin suddenly filled with smoke of unknown origin. Passengers were left in panic as the smoke spread, with no immediate explanation provided by the flight crew.
The aircraft, which had just departed on its scheduled flight, was forced to return to the airport due to the emergency situation. Despite the growing fear among passengers, the captain did not inform those on board about the source or cause of the smoke, adding to the anxiety.
Disturbingly, passengers reported that the oxygen masks did not deploy during the incident. Standard safety protocols require the automatic release of oxygen masks in the event of a drop in cabin pressure or the detection of smoke. The absence of this safety measure has raised concerns among those on board, with many questioning the airline’s emergency preparedness.
The situation is even more alarming considering the aircraft had recently undergone a month-long maintenance period with engineers before resuming service. The plane had been grounded for comprehensive checks and repairs, making the incident particularly concerning.
Passengers described the smoke as thick and disorienting, with some experiencing difficulty breathing. Several passengers stated that they felt “trapped” and “helpless” without any clear instructions or safety measures, such as oxygen masks, being activated.
Upon landing back at Bucharest Airport, emergency services were on standby to assist with the evacuation of passengers. All passengers and crew disembarked safely, and no injuries were reported, but many remained shaken by the ordeal.
The airline has yet to release an official statement about the cause of the smoke, and investigations are currently underway to determine what went wrong. Aviation experts have expressed concerns over the incident, especially given that the aircraft had just undergone maintenance work.
Romanian aviation authorities are also expected to launch a formal investigation to determine whether safety protocols were followed and to identify any potential mechanical or technical issues.
Passengers have expressed their frustration and concern on social media, demanding answers from the airline and questioning the safety of its fleet. One passenger wrote, “It was terrifying. We had no idea what was going on, and there was no communication. The smoke just kept getting worse, and we were left completely in the dark.”
The investigation is expected to focus on the recent maintenance work carried out on the aircraft and whether any lapses in safety protocols or technical failures could have contributed to the incident.
Authorities will also examine why the oxygen masks did not deploy, a crucial safety feature in such emergencies. Until the cause of the incident is confirmed, the airline may face increased scrutiny over its maintenance procedures and safety standards.
Passengers have been advised to monitor updates from the airline and aviation authorities as the investigation progresses.
