Malaysia Airlines flight MH89 aborts take-off at Narita airport, smoke seen from engine

Malaysia Airlines flight MH89 aborted take-off at Tokyo's Narita airport on Thursday (Aug 20) morning after black smoke was seen coming from the rear of its left engine.

It was bound for Kuala Lumpur.

The incident happened while the plane, an Airbus A330, was taxiing for departure at about 10.40am (9.40am Singapore time). 

None of the 160 passengers and crew members on board the aircraft were injured, said Japan's transport ministry.

Footage of the incident, posted on YouTube, shows the aircraft subsequently stopped on the runway with at least six airport emergency services vehicles seen near it. 

A statement issued by Malaysia Airlines confirmed that the flight was cancelled and that the aircraft is undergoing a thorough technical inspection.

All affected passengers are being assisted with their onward travel arrangements will be accommodated on the next available flights, the airlines said.

“Meals, lounge access and hotel accommodation are also being provided where applicable, while alternative travel arrangements are being made for affected passengers.”

The safety and well-being of its passengers and crew remain its highest priority, Malaysia Airlines added.

@asiaone Runway A at Narita Airport was reportedly closed for about two-and-a-half hours after the incident. #malaysia #japan #aircraft #airport ♬ original sound - AsiaOne

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editor@asiaone.com