A Boeing 737 has been diverted to Invercargill after flames were reportedly seen coming from its engine.
The plane, which departed from Queenstown Airport around 6pm, encountered bird strike during takeoff over the Shotover Delta.
Virgin Airlines VA148 flight was on its way to Melbourne.
The Virgin Airlines flight had 73 passengers on board, and one of its engines was shut down.
Taken from inside the plane. Source: Twitter/ Drawyah
Video emerged online where flames could be see emanating from one of the engines.
Queenstown Airport said the aircraft experienced an issue just after take-off and was diverted to Invercargill Airport where it landed safely.
A passenger wrote on Twitter that the pilot made an announcement saying bird strike was the cause.
“There were a few announcements made. Pilot confirmed us hitting several birds on the way out. We’re now sitting on the Invercargill runway as the fire crews check for damage” the passenger said at 7PM.
Virgin Australia chief operations officer Stuart Aggs said “Virgin Australia flight VA148 from Queenstown to Melbourne diverted to Invercargill Airport and landed safely following a possible bird strike on take-off this evening. The aircraft has been met by emergency services at Invercargill Airport. The safety of our guests and crew is our highest priority.”
