Created Tuesday, Jun 16th 2026 18:50Z, last updated Tuesday, Jun 16th 2026 18:50Z
A Virgin Australia Boeing 737-800, registration VH-VUR performing flight
VA-697 from Melbourne,VI to Perth,WA (Australia), was climbing out of Melbourne's runway 34 when the crew stopped the climb at 5000 feet due to a left hand engine (CFM56) fire indication, requested emergency services to meet them on the runway to check engine #1 and decided to return to Melbourne for a safe landing on runway 34 about 25 minutes after departure. The aircraft stopped on the runway for about 8 minutes for an inspection by emergency services, no evidence of fire was spotted. The aircraft subsequently taxied to the apron.
The airline reported an engine issue.
A replacement Boeing 737-800 registration VH-VOO reached Perth with a delay of about 3.5 hours.
The occurrence aircraft returned to service about 24 hours after landing back.
Related Flight:
VA697,
Virgin Australia News
