Qantas has rushed out an emphatic denial that one of its aircraft, an Airbus A380, crashed after take-off from Singapore this morning.
Some media outlets had reported that debris found on the ground on Indonesia’s Batam Island, close to Singapore, carried red and white Qantas markings and followed a loud explosion as a plane passed overhead.
In denying that one of its aircraft had crashed, Qantas said:
"A Qantas A380 aircraft operating QF32 from Singapore to Sydney experienced an engine issue soon after take off and returned to Singapore.
"The aircraft had 433 passengers and 26 crew on board.
In line with procedure, the pilot sought priority clearance for its return to Singapore. The aircraft landed safely at 11.45am local time.
"Some media reports suggested the aircraft had crashed.
"These reports are incorrect. No Qantas aircraft has crashed.
"Further details will be released once they are available".
