Passengers Scream as Cabin Panels Detach During Violent Mid-Flight Turbulence Over Iran
A Sepehran Airlines flight made an emergency landing after severe shaking caused interior damage, with no injuries reported.
Passengers aboard a Sepehran Airlines Boeing 737 flight over Iran experienced a harrowing ordeal Tuesday when severe turbulence caused cabin ceiling panels and debris to fall, according to video footage and reports.
The flight, which had departed from Mashhad for Kermanshah, encountered violent shaking shortly after takeoff. The turbulence appeared to cause interior damage, with overhead compartments and ceiling panels detaching and falling onto passengers, who were heard screaming and praying. Debris from damaged bins also reportedly fell within the cabin.
The pilot declared an emergency and initiated a return to Mashhad Hashemi Nejad International Airport. Reports suggest the aircraft may have experienced engine damage and a tire blowout during takeoff.
The plane landed safely in Mashhad, and authorities reported no injuries among the 127 passengers and crew members on board. The incident led to the temporary closure of one of the airport's runways. Passengers were later placed on another flight to continue their journey.
An investigation into the incident is underway. According to reports, Iran's aviation industry faces challenges accessing modern aircraft and spare parts due to decades of international sanctions, leading local carriers to rely on older planes and complex maintenance procedures.