Panic erupted aboard an Air Canada Boeing 777 as a acrid, burning smell permeated the cabin, forcing pilots to declare an emergency and divert the aircraft to Denver International Airport.
The terrifying incident occurred on flight AC174, which had departed Toronto Pearson International Airport bound for Calgary on Monday. The routine flight turned into a nightmare for those on board when the ominous odour began to fill the air, prompting immediate concern from both passengers and crew.
Pilots swiftly took action, declaring an emergency and rerouting the massive wide-body jet to the nearest suitable airport. The plane was met on the tarmac in Denver by a full emergency response, including fire crews and ambulances, which were scrambled as a precautionary measure.
An Air Canada spokesperson confirmed the incident, stating: "The aircraft diverted to Denver due to a burning odour in the cockpit and cabin. The aircraft landed normally and customers deplaned normally. We are providing customers with hotel accommodation and meal vouchers and will rebook them on the next available flight. We never compromise the safety of our customers and crew, which is our highest priority."
Passengers were eventually disembarked from the aircraft normally, though visibly shaken by the ordeal. The airline has made arrangements to accommodate all affected travellers, providing hotel rooms and meal vouchers while they await rebooking onto alternative flights to Calgary.
Aviation authorities are expected to launch an investigation into the cause of the burning smell, which remains unknown. The aircraft, registration C-FITL, remains on the ground in Denver undergoing thorough inspection and maintenance checks before it can be cleared to return to service.
