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Category: Air Transport

'Braking fault' forces Hobart-bound flight to divert to Melbourne

Tuesday, 29 Nov 2016 06:48:21

Virgin Australia says an another plane was organised to take passengers onto Hobart. (ABC News: Giulio Saggin, file photo)

Passengers on board a Virgin Australia flight from Sydney to Hobart were forced to change planes in Melbourne yesterday, after a "minor engineering issue" was detected.

The ABC understands passengers were told the Hobart runway was not long enough for the Boeing 737-8FE aircraft, which had a "problem" with the braking system.

Cameron Green, a passenger on the flight, told the ABC the captain announced a change in destination part way into the flight.

"The pilot came over the intercom and said there were problems with auto-braking system and we need to land in Melbourne," Mr Green said.

"He said due to construction works in Hobart, the runway was not long enough."

Mr Green said the flight crew assured those on board there was "nothing to worry about" and that there was no panic among passengers.

"Everyone cool and calm," he said.

The aircraft diverted to Tullamarine, and Mr Green said the landing seemed normal.

"We didn't notice that much difference," he said of the touchdown.

Complimentary wine and beer raises spirits

In a statement, a Virgin Australia spokesperson described the fault as a "minor engineering issue".

"Virgin Australia flight VA1534 from Sydney to Hobart was diverted to Melbourne yesterday for a minor engineering issue," the spokesperson said.

"An alternative aircraft was arranged, and guests arrived in Hobart 2 hours and 40 mins after the original arrival time.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused to our guests, however safety is always our number one priority.

Mr Green said after touchdown in Melbourne, passengers were told there would be complimentary wine and beer.

"A cheer went up in the cabin," he said.

AustraliaPlus


 

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