A Turkish Airlines (THY) aircraft became the center of attention on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, after making an emergency landing at Malta Luqa International Airport (MLA) and a number of passengers fleeing the plane.
Medical Emergency Leads to Unscheduled Landing
The unplanned landing occurred during flight TK619, traveling from Istanbul to Marrakech (RAK), after a Moroccan passenger reportedly fell ill. The captain requested permission to land in Malta due to the medical situation.
According to FlightRadar24, the flight, operated by a Boeing 737 MAX 8 with registration TC-LCI, departed Istanbul Airport (IST) at 08:56 UTC and landed in Malta at 11:02 UTC following a two-hour journey.
The incident unfolded while the aircraft was on the tarmac. After multiple passengers exited the plane, Malta’s security protocols were immediately activated. Police, assisted by the Armed Forces of Malta, launched an extensive search operation across the airport and surrounding areas following the report received at 13:45.
Ill Passenger Taken to Hospital
The Moroccan passenger who necessitated the emergency landing was transported to Mater Dei Hospital under police supervision. Although authorities have not disclosed specific details about the passenger’s condition, efforts to locate the fleeing passengers remain ongoing.
Heightened Alert at Malta Airport
The incident triggered a security alert at Malta Luqa International Airport. Police and security teams are investigating the event while conducting an active operation in the area.
Airport officials and law enforcement have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. Meanwhile, operations to apprehend the passengers who fled the aircraft are continuing.
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