By An Air France Boeing 787-9, with registration F-HRBB, embarked on journey AF-338 from Paris Charles de Gaulle in France to Seattle, WA in the USA, carrying a complement of 260 passengers. While cruising at FL390, approximately 460 nautical miles northwest of Iqaluit, NU in Canada, the flight crew detected an unsettling burning odor permeating the cockpit and cabin. Swiftly prioritizing passenger safety, the crew promptly donned their oxygen masks and initiated a diversionary course towards Iqaluit.
Descending to FL360 for the diversion, the aircraft efficiently executed a safe landing on runway 34 at Iqaluit’s airport, approximately one hour following the onset of the odor. Air France promptly responded, reporting that the diversion was necessitated by the emergence of a “heat smell” within the cabin. Upon landing, passengers disembarked the aircraft, initiating necessary checks and inspections to ensure the aircraft’s continued airworthiness.
However, concerns arose amongst passengers and their relatives when it became apparent that, contrary to the airline’s initial report, passengers remained confined within the cabin for an extended period, exceeding three hours post-landing. Grievances included the lack of access to essential medications and the inability of relatives to establish contact with their loved ones.
In response to the situation, Air France took decisive action, canceling flight AF-345 from Montreal, QC to Paris, in order to deploy another aircraft, a Boeing 777-300 with registration F-GSQT, to Iqaluit. This strategic decision was made to expedite the retrieval of stranded passengers and ensure their timely continuation of travel.
As the investigation into the cause of the odor and subsequent delays unfolded, Air France remained committed to prioritizing passenger well-being and safety, pledging transparent communication and swift resolution of any outstanding issues.
