PAL denies ‘emergency landing’ of aircraft at Sydney airport

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MANILA — The Philippine Airlines (PAL) denied on Monday that its aircraft made an emergency landing in Sydney, Australia, on Sunday but it confirmed that it returned to Kingsford Smith International Airport “due to a technical issue.”

In a statement, PAL spokesperson Maria Cielo Villaluna disclosed that PR 212 departed Sydney at 1:06 p.m. local time but the flight circled back to the airport for a technical check of the aircraft, which carried 218 passengers and 14 flight crew.

“The A340 aircraft landed normally and was subjected to a technical check,” said Villaluna. “No emergency landing was declared by the pilot of PR 212,” she pointed out.

Australian media reported on Sunday that the Manila-bound plane was forced to make an emergency landing after encountering a problem with its landing gear.

PAL said on Monday the passengers were given hotel accommodations and were apprised of the situation. A number of affected passengers were rebooked on available PAL Sydney-Manila flights while others were booked on other airlines.

“Safety remains the cornerstone of PAL operations. The airline is seeking the understanding of its passengers as it focuses on ensuring the immediate return to operation of the aircraft,” said Villaluna.  SFM