A British Airways flight bound for London was forced to make an emergency landing at Cape Town International Airport after smoke was detected in the cockpit, prompting immediate safety protocols and a coordinated emergency response.

The aircraft, an Airbus A350 operating as flight BA58, had been in the air for nearly two hours when the flight crew reported the incident and made the decision to turn back to Cape Town as a precautionary measure.

Swift Emergency Response

Emergency teams from both the airport and the City of Cape Town were swiftly mobilised, with four major fire appliances positioned and on standby as the aircraft approached for landing.

Passengers were safely evacuated once the aircraft reached a designated parking area, and no injuries have been reported.

JP Smith, Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, confirmed on social media that City Fire and Rescue Services were called in to support a “Phase 2 Emergency Response.” Fire crews remained on site until the situation was declared safe.

Investigation Under Way

The source of the smoke remains unknown, and a full investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the incident. British Airways has not yet issued an official statement but is expected to provide an update as the technical assessment continues.

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), which manages Cape Town International Airport, confirmed the incident and said all standard emergency protocols were activated.

“Our emergency response teams, supported by all relevant stakeholders, were swiftly deployed in line with established safety procedures to manage the situation effectively and ensure the safety of all concerned,” ACSA said in a statement.

Passengers Safe, But Concerns Remain

While the quick action of the flight crew and emergency responders avoided a more serious incident, the scare has raised fresh concerns over airline safety.

British Airways has been approached for comment.

More updates will follow as the investigation progresses.