(Eagle News) — Philippine Air Lines said that is “fully cooperating” with authorities investigating why a PAL flight’s engine suddenly caught fire on Friday, Nov. 22 (Manila time) prompting an emergency landing at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
“We affirm that safety is our top priority and that Philippine Airlines is fully cooperating with the concerned airport and aviation authorities,” said a PAL statement on Nov. 22.
PAL said that all the 342 passengers and 18 crew members aboard PAL Flight PR113 were able to disembark safely following an emergency landing at the LA airport using regular stairs.
The airplane took off from LAX at 11:45 a.m. local time (3:45 a.m. on Nov. 22, Manila time) and was heading for Manila when the trip had to be cut short to make an emergency landing back at the LA Airport 12 p.m. (LA time) or 4 a.m. Manila time.
PAL lauded the “calm professionalism” of its staff and crew during the crisis situation, involving a Boeing 777 aircraft with registry number RP-C7775.
“We likewise recognize and appreciate the calm professionalism exhibited by our experienced flight and cabin crew, headed by Captain Triston Simeon and Purser Joanne Marie Dirige, in executing the unscheduled landing and taking care of our passengers,” PAL said.
PAL then announced the various assistance being extended to its affected passengers, such as rebooking on alternative flights to Manila, provision of meals and hotel accommodations.
