An Air Canada flight operating one of the airline's longest routes was forced to make a dramatic U-turn and return to its departure airport after the crew reported a concerning smell in the cockpit.
Emergency Declared Minutes After Take-Off
The incident involved Flight AC40, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner travelling from Auckland, New Zealand, to Vancouver, Canada. According to reports, the pilots were compelled to declare an emergency a mere seven minutes into the journey on Tuesday, 13 January 2026. The decision was prompted by the detection of an "unusual odour" in the flight deck, a situation treated with utmost seriousness in aviation.
Safety Protocol and Safe Return
Following the emergency declaration, the aircraft initiated a large turn over the Hauraki Gulf. As part of standard procedure for an unexpected landing with a heavy fuel load, the plane circled to burn off excess fuel before it could safely approach the runway. The manoeuvre ensured a secure touchdown back at Auckland Airport.
Air Canada confirmed the event, stating the return was conducted "out of an abundance of caution." The airline assured that the aircraft is now undergoing thorough technical inspections by maintenance crews. Furthermore, arrangements are being made for the affected passengers to continue their travels.
Ongoing Investigation and Passenger Welfare
While the exact source of the odour remains under investigation, such incidents highlight the rigorous safety protocols followed by airline crews. The swift action by the pilots of the Boeing 787 prioritised passenger and crew safety above all else. Air Canada's response now focuses on both determining the cause of the issue and managing the logistical fallout for those on board the disrupted long-haul service.
