Passengers aboard a regional flight across South Africa experienced a tense midair diversion on February 25th 2026 after one of the aircraft’s engines began emitting unusual noises, followed by loud bangs and a burning smell in the cabin.
The CemAir De Havilland Canada Dash 8 Q400, registered ZS-DHB, was operating flight 5Z-451 from George to Johannesburg. The aircraft was cruising at Flight Level 250, approximately 160 nautical miles southwest of Bloemfontein, when the right-hand engine began producing abnormal sounds.
According to reports, the strange noises were followed by a series of bangs and a noticeable burning odour inside the cabin. The flight crew responded by shutting the affected engine down in accordance with standard procedures. With the aircraft now operating on a single engine, the crew initiated a drift-down to Flight Level 130 and diverted toward Bloemfontein.
The Dash 8 landed safely without further incident. There were no immediate reports of injuries.
As of March 1st 2026, the aircraft remained on the ground in Bloemfontein while inspections and maintenance assessments were underway.
Engine shutdowns in flight are rare but well-rehearsed scenarios for turboprop crews, and the Q400 is certified to continue safe flight on one engine. In this case, prompt action by the crew and adherence to procedure ensured a controlled diversion and uneventful landing despite the alarming sequence of sounds and smells at cruising altitude.
