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A routine Japan Airlines flight from Shanghai to Tokyo turned into a harrowing experience for 191 passengers and crew when their Boeing 737 rapidly descended nearly 26,000 feet mid-flight due to a mid-air mechanical issue.
The aircraft, operated under a code-share with Spring Japan, made an emergency landing at Kansai Airport on Monday, leaving shaken passengers recounting what felt like a near-death experience.
Oxygen Masks and Panic
The plane suddenly plunged from 36,000 feet to just under 10,500 feet in less than 10 minutes, prompting oxygen masks to deploy throughout the cabin. Several passengers took to social media after landing, describing the ordeal as “life-threatening.”
One wrote, “My body is still here, but my soul hasn't caught up. My legs are still shaking.” Another revealed they were on “the verge of tears,” going as far as writing a will mid-air.
Safe Landing, But Lingering Fear
Despite the terrifying drop, the plane landed safely in Osaka with no reported injuries. Passengers were offered 15,000 yen ($104) in compensation and overnight accommodation. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the sudden drop in cabin pressure.
Also Read | Air India CEO says crashed Dreamliner was well-maintained, undergone last major check in June 2023
Spotlight on Boeing 737 Safety Concerns
The incident has reignited safety concerns surrounding the Boeing 737 series. Previous fatal accidents involving the model include the 2023 Jeju Air crash in South Korea and the 2022 China Eastern Airlines disaster, both resulting in heavy casualties.
Air India Incident Adds to Aviation Woes
In a similar case, an Air India Boeing 777 dropped 900 feet mid-air on June 14 en route from Delhi to Vienna. Though it landed safely, both pilots were off-rostered pending investigation.
