Emirates flight forced to return to Maldives after take-off

EK653 is scheduled to depart Male, the capital of the Maldives, at 5.30pm (local time) with a total delay of 18 hours.

DUBAI // An Emirates flight from Male to Dubai on Tuesday returned to Male shortly after take-off because of a technical issue.

“The aircraft landed and passengers safely disembarked,” said an Emirates spokeswoman.

“Passengers have been provided [with] refreshments at the terminal while a recovery flight is arranged from Dubai to operate the delayed EK653 service from Male.”

EK653 is scheduled to depart Male, the capital of the Maldives, at 5.30pm (local time) .

“Emirates apologises for any inconvenience but the safety of our passengers and crew is of utmost importance,” the spokeswoman said.