• Plane departing Queenstown experienced engine fire, causing loud bangs and flames.
  • Virgin VA148 flight to Melbourne is currently circling above the city.
  • Emergency crews on standby as the plane prepares for possible emergency landing.

Update: 8:40pm Monday, This story has been updated with the latest information supplied by Virgin Australia.

Virgin Australia flight VA148 from Queenstown to Melbourne has safely landed at Invercargill Airport following a possible bird strike during take-off this evening. All passengers have disembarked without incident.

Virgin Australia Chief Operations Officer Stuart Aggs commented, “The safety of our guests and crew is our highest priority.”

The aircraft, a Boeing 737-800 registered VH-YIV, departed Queenstown at approximately 6 pm local time and landed safely at Invercargill at approximately 6:50 pm. There were 67 guests and 6 crew members on board.

Reports from the Lakes Weekly Bulletin indicated that an engine fire was reported shortly after takeoff. Witnesses in Queenstown observed flames and heard loud bangs from one of the engines as the plane ascended over the Shotover Delta. Stuff reported that one engine had been shut down as a precaution.

Emergency services were on standby as the aircraft circled above Invercargill, and they were promptly on the ground to assist upon landing. Fortunately, there have been no reports of physical injuries to passengers or crew.

Virgin Australia is now focusing on providing support for the passengers and crew, including accommodation in Invercargill and arranging onward travel to Australia at the earliest opportunity.

“We wish to express our appreciation for the support of Invercargill Airport, Emergency Services, local Air New Zealand team members, and our crew onboard in helping to support tonight’s response effort,” added Aggs.

Virgin Australia remains committed to the safety and well-being of all its passengers and crew during this time.

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