Gulf Air flight forced to land in Kuwait after engine failure

On Sunday morning, an emergency situation unfolded involving Gulf Air Flight GF5, which took off from Bahrain and was en route to Manchester. Approximately one hour into the flight, the aircraft experienced a suspected engine failure that led the pilot to make an emergency landing in Kuwait City, which is located roughly between the two destinations. The plane had left Bahrain at roughly 2 a.m. before the incident occurred. Reports from aboard the flight indicated that the left turbine engine had caught fire, prompting immediate action to ensure the safety of all passengers. Upon landing in Kuwait City, emergency crews surrounded the aircraft to address the potential hazard posed by the engine fault. Passengers, including a significant number of Indians, found themselves stranded at the airport due to complications arising from their travel status and the ongoing Gulf Cooperation Council Summit, which closed government offices and limited hotel availability. While some passengers managed to receive assistance and obtain food and water, many expressed frustration over the lack of support and communication regarding their situation. The Embassy of India has remained active in coordinating efforts for those stranded. A flight was tentatively scheduled for Monday morning to transport affected passengers back to Manchester—a move that sought to alleviate the debilitating wait many had endured. However, the exceptional circumstances caused by the GCC Summit and the associated travel restrictions complicated the matter, as the Indian nationals were not eligible for a Visa on Arrival, further complicating their situation and leading to extended hours of waiting at the airport. This incident highlights the challenges faced by travelers during unforeseen emergencies, particularly in a region where political gatherings and holiday schedules can strain typical operational processes in airports, as demonstrated by the stranded passengers’ experiences in Kuwait. As travelers from various backgrounds sought to connect with family members and return to their respective locations, the rapid mobilization of embassy resources became critical in addressing the urgent needs arising from the situation. Continued communication from Gulf Air and relevant authorities will be essential in resolving matters appropriately as soon as possible.