Busan: A South Korean Jin Air airplane en route to Okinawa, Japan, made an unscheduled return to Busan’s Gimhae International Airport after passengers and crew reported hearing blast sounds coming from the engine area shortly after takeoff.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the incident occurred with Jin Air flight LJ371, which had departed from Busan at 8:39 a.m. The flight, which was destined for Okinawa, had to circle over Geoje Island to burn off fuel before safely landing back at the departure point at 9:56 a.m., approximately one hour and 17 minutes after leaving the ground.

Passengers on board reported multiple instances of loud, explosive sounds emanating from the engine area during the initial ascent. Some even claimed to have witnessed flames near the wing of the aircraft while it was airborne.

A representative from Jin Air confirmed that unusual sounds were detected near the engine during the takeoff phase. Although no technical issues were officially identified, the airline opted to return the aircraft to ensure passenger safety.

Fortunately, the incident did not result in any injuries among the passengers. Jin Air announced that a replacement aircraft would be dispatched to continue service on the affected route to Okinawa.