UPDATE: A Virgin Australia flight experienced a terrifying plunge from 37,000 feet to just under 10,000 feet shortly after takeoff from Sydney to Brisbane on Wednesday night, leading to a chaotic scene onboard as oxygen masks deployed and passengers feared for their lives.
The incident aboard flight VA993 occurred around 8:30 PM local time when the aircraft suddenly lost cabin pressure. Approximately 40 minutes later, at 9 PM, the plane made a dramatic drop to 8,775 feet, as confirmed by data from FlightRadar. Passengers reported a sudden descent, with many expressing their fear as the situation unfolded.
Footage obtained by 10News showed oxygen masks falling from overhead compartments, while flight attendants swiftly worked to maintain calm among passengers. One traveler, identified as Haley, recounted her panic, messaging her husband: “Emergency landing – love you,” as the plane descended.
A Virgin Australia spokesperson confirmed that the flight landed safely in Brisbane, albeit 10 minutes behind schedule, following the “depressurisation event.” They stated, “The flight crew took the appropriate steps, following standard operating procedures, to descend to a lower altitude.” As part of the emergency protocol, a PAN call was issued to Air Traffic Control, signaling an urgent situation that required attention.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the passengers or crew, and Virgin Australia has since reached out to all affected individuals to offer counseling services. The spokesperson reassured the public, stating, “Safety remains Virgin Australia’s number one priority, and we are reviewing the situation in line with our safety standards.”
In light of the incident, the aircraft will undergo a thorough investigation by engineers to ensure compliance with safety protocols. The company emphasized its commitment to prioritizing passenger safety and adhering to industry standards.
As investigations continue, this incident highlights the vital nature of cabin pressure management in aviation and the crucial role of flight crews in emergency situations. Passengers are encouraged to stay informed about safety procedures and remain vigilant while flying.
More updates will follow as Virgin Australia and aviation authorities provide further details on this alarming occurrence.
