An Aeroflot Boeing 737 operating flight SU524 from Moscow to Dubai had to make an emergency landing at Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Baku due to a passenger’s medical emergency. The incident highlights the airline’s commitment to passenger safety and the airport’s efficiency in handling medical diversions.
Aeroflot Flight Diverts to Baku for Medical Emergency
Aeroflot, Russia’s national airline, operates multiple flights between Moscow Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) and Dubai International Airport (DXB) using both narrowbody and widebody aircraft.
On this occasion, flight SU524 departed from Moscow at 11:41 PM UTC (2:41 AM local time). After flying for more than two hours at an altitude of 36,000 feet, the flight crew reported a medical emergency and made the decision to divert to Baku.
Safe Landing and Immediate Medical Response
The aircraft, a Boeing 737-800 registered as RA-73115, landed safely at Heydar Aliyev International Airport at 2:27 AM UTC (6:27 AM local time). Medical personnel were ready on-site to provide immediate assistance to the distressed passenger.
The airport swiftly activated its emergency response protocols, showcasing its preparedness for handling such situations. Regular emergency training ensures that Baku Airport staff can efficiently manage unexpected medical emergencies.
Flight Resumes Journey After Delay
Following the medical intervention, flight SU524 took off again from Baku at 4:41 AM UTC. At the time of reporting, the aircraft was airborne and expected to land in Dubai shortly. The Boeing 737-800 involved in this incident is an 11.3-year-old aircraft powered by two CFM 56-7B engines.
Previous Aeroflot Emergency Landing in Baku
This is not the first time an Aeroflot flight has had to divert to Baku. In December last year, an Aeroflot flight from Dubai to Moscow made an emergency landing at Heydar Aliyev International Airport due to a disruptive passenger.
Incident Details
A 38-year-old passenger, Roman Pakhomov, caused a violent disturbance mid-flight. Allegedly under the influence of alcohol, he verbally abused passengers and crew. The situation escalated when he attempted to break an aircraft window.
Emergency Landing and Passenger Detention
The crew, with the help of other passengers, restrained Pakhomov using seatbelts and plastic handcuffs. However, he managed to break free and continued his aggressive behavior, forcing the captain to divert to Baku.
Upon landing, Azerbaijani authorities detained Pakhomov, and the aircraft remained grounded for 2 hours and 45 minutes. He later claimed to have no memory of the incident due to alcohol intoxication. After the necessary procedures, the flight resumed its journey to Moscow.
The recent emergency landing of Aeroflot flight SU524 in Baku highlights the importance of swift decision-making by pilots and the efficiency of airport emergency response teams.
Whether dealing with medical emergencies or unruly passengers, Heydar Aliyev International Airport has proven its capability in handling such situations with professionalism. This incident also emphasizes the significance of in-flight medical preparedness and strict enforcement of safety protocols to ensure passenger well-being.