The investigation into two incidents of smoke on an Etihad flight from Melbourne earlier this week continues though no arrests have yet been made.
Smoke was detected in the toilets on flight EY461 on Tuesday, which forced the plane to make an unscheduled landing in Jakarta before its safe arrival in Abu Dhabi. Upon arrival, an investigation was conducted by Abu Dhabi Police.
Smoke also appeared from Jakarta to Abu Dhabi, causing the alarm to be sounded again while the cabin crew were preparing the meal service.
In a statement on Thursday, Etihad Airways said: “In the absence of any conclusive incriminating evidence, no arrests have been made at this time. However, the investigation is ongoing and Etihad is cooperating fully in the enquiry led by the Abu Dhabi police.”
Following the arrival of the flight in Abu Dhabi, all disembarking passengers and crew were questioned by Abu Dhabi Police.
Twelve passengers held for further questioning were given the option to stay at an airport hotel but opted to stay together, and as a result, were accommodated in the airline's first class lounge in Terminal 1 at Abu Dhabi airport where food and other refreshments were available. During this time, the detained passengers had access to consular representation and were visited by the representatives of Australia, the United Kingdom and Ireland.
After the second smoke incident, the captain decided to position crew members at each of the toilets. Cabin service was discontinued and the crew continued to monitor and secure toilet access for the remainder of the flight.
“Safety is our number one priority and we have a zero-tolerance policy in respect to people who threaten the safety and security of passengers and crew or our aircraft,” the statement said.
The investigation continues with Etihad offering authorities their full support.
newsdesk@thenational.ae
