Turkish Airlines flight declares emergency due to low fuel

A Turkish Airlines flight traveling from Lyon to Istanbul declared an emergency after fuel levels reached critical lows. The Airbus A321neo, carrying 116 passengers, encountered severe weather and heavy air traffic upon approaching Istanbul.

After being held in holding patterns at altitudes of 28,000 and 12,000 feet, the crew attempted to land at Istanbul Airport twice. Both attempts were aborted due to intense crosswinds reaching approximately 85 km/h (46 knots). Following the failed landings and extended time in the air, the pilots issued a ‘7700’ emergency code to signal the low fuel situation.

Air traffic controllers diverted the aircraft to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, where it landed safely. Emergency response and fire crews were stationed on the runway as a precaution, but no injuries were reported among passengers or crew.