A passenger Boeing 737 began breaking apart in the air shortly after departing the Iranian city of Mashhad. Severe shaking inside the cabin tore ceiling panels loose, exposed structural elements and sent objects falling onto passengers. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
The aircraft, operated by Iranian carrier Sepehran, was flying a domestic route from Mashhad to Kermanshah. The problems began almost immediately after takeoff.
Video published on social media shows ceiling lining elements tearing away inside the cabin and metal structures becoming exposed. Parts of the panels and items from overhead baggage racks fall onto passengers. People scream and try to cover their heads with their hands.
According to preliminary information from the Iranian agency Mehr, a landing gear tire burst during the takeoff run or takeoff. There were also reports of possible damage to one of the engines.
The pilot declared an emergency and requested permission to return to Mashhad Airport. At that time the aircraft began shaking severely.
Despite the damage and strong vibration, the crew managed to turn the airliner around and make an emergency landing at the airport of departure. None of the passengers on board were injured.
After landing, the people were taken off the aircraft and transferred to another flight to Kermanshah. One of the runways at Mashhad Airport was temporarily closed for inspection.
The final cause of the incident is being established. Specialists will have to determine whether the severe vibration was caused by the tire damage, an engine malfunction or a combination of several technical problems.