Engine failure forces Malaysia Airlines to make emergency landing on Melbourne-KL flight

KUALA LUMPUR, August 20 – Malaysia Airlines flight MH128 en route from Melbourne to Kuala Lumpur made an emergency landing at Alice Springs Airport (ASP) in Australia’s Northern Territories today.

9news reported that the flight, which left Melbourne at around 11:20 p.m., landed at ASP a few hours later.

Malaysia Airlines confirmed the flight diversion in a statement: “Malaysia Airlines confirms that flight MH128 from Melbourne to Kuala Lumpur on 19 August 2024 was diverted to Alice Springs Airport (ASP) due to a technical issue. The aircraft landed safely at 4.35am local time.”

The airline also said it is actively working to rebook passengers and arrange reimbursement of meal costs and, if necessary, accommodation.

According to the Airport Development Group (ADG), which manages ASP, the aircraft was diverted due to engine failure.

Rob Porter, ADG Executive General Manager (Airports), said: “We are pleased to report that all passengers are safe and commend the rapid and coordinated response of our team, the airline and emergency services.”

Porter also confirmed that a small number of passengers will stay overnight at the ASP and depart on domestic flights tomorrow.