An Air France long-haul flight traveling from Beirut to Paris Charles de Gaulle was forced to divert to Munich on January 4, 2026, after a burning smell was detected on board during cruise.
Flight AF565, operated by an Airbus A330-200 registered F-GZCM, was cruising at flight level 400 when the issue arose. At the time, the aircraft was approximately 60 nautical miles south of Munich, flying in Austrian airspace. Crew members detected a burning odour inside the cabin, prompting immediate safety procedures.
According to passenger accounts, the smell resembled that of fire. The captain later informed passengers that the diversion was due to concerns about potentially toxic fumes on board.
The aircraft descended and landed safely on runway 26L at Munich Airport about 18 minutes after the diversion decision. Emergency services were on standby, and the aircraft was inspected after landing. No injuries were reported.
Air France has not reported any medical emergencies related to the incident. The airline emphasized that the diversion was carried out as a precaution in line with established safety procedures, prioritizing the health and safety of passengers and crew.
