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A Philippine Airlines (PAL) flight en route to Los Angeles made an emergency landing at Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Japan after an air conditioning unit malfunctioned and emitted smoke in the aircraft’s cabin.
In a statement, the flag carrier said a Boeing 777 with a registry number 7782, was carrying 359 passengers and 18 flight deck and cabin crew.
“[PAL] confirms that Flight PR102—which departed from Manila on April 9, Wednesday en route to Los Angeles, diverted to Haneda Airport due to initial findings of smoke emitting from one of two air conditioning units,” it said.
PAL confirmed that the aircraft landed safely at Haneda at 3:30 a.m.
Passengers were asked to remain on board for approximately six hours while PAL coordinated with Haneda Airport officials to “ensure a smooth and safe disembarkation.”
The aircraft’s doors were likewise opened to ensure proper ventilation.
PAL later confirmed that passengers and crew “safely disembarked” from the aircraft after it was assigned a disembarkation gate.
“Our ground operations team at Tokyo Haneda Airport is providing full support, including meals, baggage assistance,” the airline said.
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said the aircraft has not been cleared to continue its journey to Los Angeles, California.
As such, PAL is now in the process of arranging alternative flights for affected passengers.
Those without a visa will be granted shore passes so they can temporarily leave the airport before continuing their travel.
Dizon had earlier said that he is coordinating with Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines Kazuya Endo to provide assistance to the passengers.
“Humihingi tayo ng paumanhin sa ating mga pasahero (We apologize to our passengers) and I’m praying that they’re all okay and they’re now comfortable,” he said in a press briefing.
Dizon said he has instructed the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) to investigate the incident.
He has also ordered a probe on the actions undertaken by PAL.
“I just want to remind PAL that it is their responsibility to take care of our passengers. Their safety, comfort, and convenience are also their responsibility,” he added.
PAL, for its part, said it will fully cooperate with the relevant airport and aviation authorities.
“Philippine Airlines prioritizes safety above all else,” it said.
