Novoair flight returns after technical fault

A Novoair flight bound for Cox's Bazar made a precautionary emergency landing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Friday evening after developing a technical fault shortly after take-off. Prime Minister's Adviser on Foreign Affairs and Civil Aviation Humayun Kabir was among the passengers on board.

Flight BQ-935 departed Dhaka at around 6:50 pm but experienced a technical problem within 10 to 15 minutes of take-off, prompting the pilot to return to the capital.

Novoair spokesperson Niladri Shuvo confirmed the incident, saying the aircraft landed safely after the pilot detected the fault.

"There was a technical issue, so the captain decided to return to Dhaka as a precautionary measure," he said.

According to sources, the aircraft's landing gear failed to retract properly after take-off. Despite several attempts by the flight crew, the system did not function as expected.

To ensure a safe landing, the aircraft remained airborne for about 40 to 45 minutes before making a controlled emergency landing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.

All passengers disembarked safely, and no injuries were reported.

Humayun Kabir was travelling to Cox's Bazar to attend an official event. Novoair has not yet disclosed the exact nature of the technical fault, and the aircraft is expected to undergo a detailed inspection before returning to service.