Novoair flight makes emergency landing in Dhaka after technical fault

A Novoair flight from Dhaka to Cox's Bazar made an emergency landing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Friday evening, July 3, after developing a technical fault shortly after takeoff. The aircraft was carrying Prime Minister's Foreign and Civil Aviation Adviser Humayun Kabir, along with other passengers. No major incident occurred as the aircraft landed safely.

The Novoair flight BGQ-935 departed Dhaka for Cox's Bazar at 6:50 pm. Approximately 10 to 15 minutes after takeoff, a technical fault was detected when the landing gear failed to retract properly.

Confirming the matter, Humayun Kabir said the captain made multiple attempts to retract the landing gear but was unsuccessful. Considering passenger safety, the decision was made to return to Dhaka. As part of the safety protocol, the aircraft circled in the air for about 40 to 45 minutes before making a safe emergency landing.

Praising the captain's decision, the adviser said, "I am not an expert in aviation, but personally, I believe the captain's decision was absolutely correct. He returned to Dhaka considering passenger safety."

Kabir said panic spread inside the aircraft after the fault was detected. Children were crying and passengers were anxious, making the situation uncomfortable. The captain had to reduce speed gradually and circle in the air to prepare for a safe landing. "By the grace of Allah, no major accident occurred," he said.

Following the incident, Kabir emphasised the need for stricter fitness tests for older aircraft. He said private airlines operating older aircraft must have their fitness checked more rigorously. There can be no compromise on passenger safety. Without regular and effective fitness tests, the risk of more serious accidents in the future could increase.