An aircraft operated by Air Astana, performing flight Astana — Frankfurt, made an emergency landing in Aktobe on the morning of 8 May after one of its engines failed in the air. The crew issued a urgency signal PAN-PAN and changed course for a safe landing.
WHAT HAPPENED
According to the press service of Air Astana, the crew of the Airbus A321 aircraft issued the international urgency signal PAN-PAN after an abnormal situation arose on board. The cause was the failure of one of the engines.
Following this, the pilots decided to change course and carry out an emergency landing at Aktobe Airport. On board the aircraft were 93 passengers, including 4 children and 1 infant, as well as 9 crew members.
HOW THE LANDING WENT
The Civil Aviation Committee (CAC) of the Ministry of Transport reported that the aircraft landed at 11:34 local time. After landing, the aircraft taxied to the parking stand under its own power.
Emergency rescue and ground services were activated at the airport. Air Astana clarified that the crew acted in accordance with standard safety procedures, and the landing itself proceeded normally.
HOW THE INCIDENT WAS CLASSIFIED
The Ministry of Transport reported that the aviation event has been classified as a serious incident. The investigation will be conducted by the Department for the Investigation of Transport Accidents and Incidents.
CONTEXT AND SIGNIFICANCE
The PAN-PAN signal is used in international aviation to report an urgent abnormal situation that requires the attention of air traffic controllers and emergency services, but does not indicate an immediate threat of disaster.
After receiving such a signal, airport services are placed on standby to receive the aircraft and provide necessary assistance to the crew and passengers.