Dramatic video showed panic erupting aboard an Iranian passenger flight Tuesday as intense turbulence or a suspected mechanical malfunction sent parts of the cabin interior crashing down on travelers. Overhead-bin components and ceiling panels appeared to break loose during the ordeal.
The incident involved a Sepehran Airlines Boeing 737 traveling from Mashhad to Kermanshah, Iran, according to Jam Press.
Jam Press reported that the aircraft may have sustained engine damage as well as a tire blowout during takeoff.
Inside the aircraft, footage appeared to show the cabin coming apart as damaged overhead compartments shed panels and debris onto passengers. Travelers could be heard screaming and praying while raising their arms to shield themselves from falling pieces.
Passengers grip seats and overhead compartments after a reported malfunction prompted an emergency landing in Mashhad, Iran, on Tuesday. (JamPress)
The pilot reportedly declared an emergency and requested permission to return to Mashhad Hashemi Nejad International Airport.
The Boeing 737 landed safely, Jam Press reported, citing NeedToKnow. None of the 127 passengers and crew members were reported injured.
Passengers react inside the damaged Sepehran Airlines aircraft before its emergency landing in Mashhad, Iran. (JamPress)
The emergency also led to the temporary shutdown of one of the airport’s two runways.
Authorities have launched an investigation into what caused the incident, according to reports.
Passengers were reportedly placed on another flight to complete their journey.
Ceiling panels dangle inside a Sepehran Airlines cabin after violent shaking caused interior damage shortly after takeoff from Mashhad, Iran. (JamPress)
According to Jam Press, decades of international sanctions have left Iran’s aviation industry struggling to access newer Western-built aircraft, genuine spare parts and other modern upgrades.
Local carriers have been forced to rely on aging aircraft while completing complex maintenance on their fleets.