Browsing: Africa aviation safety

British Airways Flight BA16, operated by a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, made an emergency return to Sydney an hour after departure due to reports of smoke or an odor in the cockpit. The flight was bound for Singapore and landed safely with all passengers disembarking without incident.

The Boeing 777-9 completed vital brake certification testing against challenging Oklahoma weather, testing the aircraft’s limits and ensuring safety and regulatory standards. Despite weather disruptions, the team adapted and completed the tests successfully, paving the way for the aircraft’s anticipated advancements in long-haul travel.

A British Airways flight from Sydney to Singapore made an emergency landing back at Sydney Airport due to smoke in the cabin. Emergency services were prepared and all passengers disembarked safely. British Airways is investigating the smoke’s source, but the flight remains canceled. A comparable event occurred in August 2025 involving a British Airways Airbus A380 in Johannesburg.

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson has addressed operational incident concerns, affirming that their occurrence rate is typical given the airline’s extensive size. Air India is increasing transparency and customer service through initiatives like an e-voucher program for disruptions. Following a tragic accident, the airline is enhancing safety and operational practices to rebuild its reputation under Tata Group ownership.

A Boeing 787 captain captured video footage of multiple aircraft navigating a significant storm near Tbilisi, Georgia. The footage, taken from the cockpit, shows aircraft in holding patterns around a powerful thunderstorm, highlighting standard safety procedures. The video garnered attention on social media for its remarkable depiction of flying near severe weather conditions.

United Airlines Flight 6378, operated by Mesa Airlines, diverted to Nashville following a disturbance involving two passengers. The aircraft, en route from Pittsburgh to Houston, was rerouted for safety reasons, and the individuals were removed by police. An FAA investigation is ongoing, highlighting the zero-tolerance policy on passenger misconduct.