A Qantas plane has landed safely in Christchurch after a "suspected engine issue" saw flames appear to burst from the aircraft shortly after takeoff from Queenstown this afternoon.
Flight QF122 was travelling from Queenstown to Sydney when it was diverted to Christchurch.
The service had been scheduled to take off from Queenstown at 3.35pm and arrive in Sydney at 4.50pm (local time).
Footage captured by 1News showed bursts of flames appearing from the aircraft's left engine as it climbed skyward away from Queenstown Airport.
Video captured flames bursting from the plane’s left engine as it departed Queenstown Airport. (Source: 1News)
'Distressing experience' - Qantas responds
In a statement this evening, Qantas confirmed the aircraft had experienced a "suspected engine issue" after takeoff from Queenstown.
“One of our flights to Sydney experienced a suspected engine issue after take-off from Queenstown this afternoon and the aircraft diverted to Christchurch.
"Our pilots are highly trained to manage situations like this and the aircraft landed safely," they said.
"We know this would have been a distressing experience for passengers and will be contacting all customers to provide support."
Queenstown Airport remains operational
A Queenstown Airport spokesperson confirmed the flight had diverted to Christchurch shortly departing Queenstown.
"QF122 was diverted to Christchurch soon after departure from Queenstown Airport this afternoon," the spokesperson said.
"Queenstown Airport remains operational."
Footage showed the plane landing safely in Christchurch around 5pm, with smoke appearing to come from its left engine.
Emergency crews could be seen waiting on the tarmac as the aircraft arrived.
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