Sydney‑bound Qantas flight diverted to Christchurch after suspected engine issue

A Sydney-bound Qantas flight has been forced to divert after a bird strike caused a suspected engine issue shortly after taking off from Queenstown on Saturday afternoon.

QF122 departed Queenstown bound for Sydney when the alert was raised, prompting the pilots to break off the trans‑Tasman climb and divert to Christchurch as a precaution.

Some bystanders reported seeing flames coming from the engine.

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It is understood the aircraft landed safely and normally in Christchurch.

“One of our flights to Sydney experienced a suspected engine issue after take-off from Queenstown this afternoon and the aircraft diverted to Christchurch,” a Qantas spokesperson said.

“Our pilots are highly trained to manage situations like this and the aircraft landed safely.

The Qantas flight coming in to land at Christchurch. Credit: Kelly Henderson

“We know this would have been a distressing experience for passengers and will be contacting all customers to provide support.”

A Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand spokesperson said it is aware of the Qantas flight incident, blaming a bird strike for the chaos.

“The flight departed Queenstown Airport bound for Sydney and experienced a bird strike shortly after take-off,” it said.

“The aircraft subsequently diverted to Christchurch and has landed safely.”

It is understood that customers on the plane will be provided accommodation and directed on to alternate flights.