A Qantas Boeing 737 operating flight QF122 from Queenstown to Sydney was diverted to Christchurch shortly after take-off on September 5 after passengers and people on the ground reported seeing flames coming from the aircraft’s left engine. Qantas confirmed a suspected engine issue.
The aircraft landed safely in Christchurch around 52 minutes after departure, with emergency crews waiting on the ground. Qantas said both engines remained operational throughout the flight and praised the pilots for managing the situation. The aircraft has been grounded for inspection while the cause is investigated.