A dramatic turn of events unfolded on Monday night aboard a SWISS flight from the Lufthansa Group. Flight LX1885, traveling from Bucharest to Zurich, was affected by an incident. The cockpit crew decided to make an emergency landing in Graz and evacuate the aircraft following engine issues and the detection of smoke in both the cabin and cockpit.
There were 74 passengers and 5 crew members on board. The aircraft landed safely, and all passengers were evacuated. They are currently being cared for and supported by the crisis intervention team at Graz Airport. At this time, it has been confirmed by the airline that 10 passengers have sought medical attention.
"We are deeply concerned about the condition of one cabin crew member who was airlifted to a hospital in Graz by helicopter; his status remains unclear. The other four crew members have also been placed under medical care." SWISS reported.
SWISS added that is working intensively to ensure the best possible care and support for both passengers and crew members. A task force has been established to address passenger and crew needs, including assistance, accommodation, and onward travel arrangements.
"Our utmost priority is to provide the best support to all those affected. A SWISS team is preparing to travel to Graz to assist the passengers and crew members. Our thoughts are with the passengers and our colleagues who had to experience this incident. We remain in close contact with the local authorities and are working to determine the cause of the incident and plan the next steps." SWISS noted.
The aircraft is currently still on the runway, and Graz Airport remains closed. The aircraft involved is an Airbus A220-300, registered as HB-JCD.