An Air Canada flight headed from Las Vegas to Toronto was forced to detour and land in Iowa on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, due to a reported smell of smoke in the cockpit. According to a spokesperson for Des Moines International Airport, the emergency landing was made out of an "abundance of caution." The flight, designated as Air Canada Flight 1702, landed safely around 4 p.m. and was evaluated by airport response teams upon landing.
The Airbus A321 aircraft carried 176 passengers, all of whom deplaned without any reported injuries. Sarah Hoodjer, the spokesperson for Des Moines International Airport, confirmed that the plane landed normally and was cleared to taxi to the gate after the evaluation.
In response to the incident, Air Canada has arranged for another aircraft to arrive on Wednesday night to transport the passengers to their intended destination in Toronto. The original aircraft will undergo further evaluation to determine the cause of the smoke smell.
This emergency landing highlights the critical safety measures airlines take when potential issues arise during flights. Passengers on board expressed relief that the situation was handled promptly and safely, allowing them to exit the aircraft without incident.
Air Canada stated in an email that the safety of its passengers and crew is their top priority, and the decision to land in Des Moines was made with that principle in mind. The airline has a strong safety record and emphasizes the importance of following standard procedures in such situations.
Travelers are advised to remain vigilant and report any unusual smells or sights during flights, as these can be indicators of underlying issues that need immediate attention. The swift response by the flight crew in this instance ensured the safety of all on board.
As the aviation industry continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, incidents like this serve as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to passenger safety. Airlines are continuously updating their protocols and training to handle emergencies effectively, ensuring that passengers can travel with peace of mind.
The incident occurred as the travel industry sees a resurgence in demand, with more people flying as restrictions ease. Air Canada, like many airlines, is working diligently to meet the needs of its passengers while maintaining high safety standards.
In summary, while the emergency landing was an unexpected event for those on board Air Canada Flight 1702, the airline's prompt action and adherence to safety protocols ensured that the situation was managed effectively, allowing passengers to continue their journeys with minimal disruption.
