A Thai Airways International Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner developed a technical problem while operating flight TG663 on November 4. The aircraft had departed Shanghai, China, for Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand. Shortly after take-off, the pilots discovered a crack in the cockpit windscreen and decided to return.
According to reports, after detecting the problem, the crew immediately contacted air traffic control and requested permission to return to the departure airport in Shanghai.
Because the aircraft’s weight at the time could affect landing safety, the crew first circled in the air while returning and jettisoned fuel to reduce its weight in preparation for a safe landing.
Following these measures, the aircraft returned to Shanghai and landed safely. No problems affecting those on board had been reported at the time.
The cockpit windscreen is an important aircraft safety component. If a crack appears, it must be inspected and assessed in accordance with aviation safety procedures. The aircraft must be confirmed to meet safe operating requirements before returning to service.
Thai Airways International has not yet announced the specific cause of the windscreen crack, and the circumstances remain subject to further investigation.
The incident is another reminder that every aspect of aviation safety matters. Timely action by crew members when an abnormal situation arises during flight is important to protecting passengers.
