S'pore-bound AirAsia flight returns to Penang 20 minutes after takeoff due to 'adverse weather conditions'

An AirAsia flight bound for Singapore returned to Penang International Airport shortly after takeoff at around 9:50pm on Dec. 13.

As a result, passengers of flight AK1729 had to wait approximately eight hours before the plane took off again at around 5:50am on Dec. 14, according to FlightAware website.

The flight landed at Singapore Changi Airport at around 7am, around 11 hours after the flight's scheduled arrival time.

Flight turnback due to 'broken windshield': passenger

Speaking to Shin Min Daily News, a male passenger said there was a 2-hour delay before the plane first took off, at around 9:30pm.

FlightAware's data corroborated his account.

The passenger surmised that the reason for the plane's turnback was due to a broken windshield.

In a photo he took of the cockpit, there appeared to be a crack on one of the windshield panels, reported Shin Min.

AirAsia Malaysia statement

In response to Mothership's queries, AirAsia Malaysia said the flight turned back due to "a minor incident caused by adverse weather conditions".

"The flight crew, following strict safety and operational protocols, opted for a precautionary turnback to ensure the safety of all on board," read the statement.

According to the airline, after the aircraft arrived in Singapore "with all guests and crew disembarking without incident", it was taken for "a thorough inspection to ensure continued safety and operational readiness".

AirAsia Malaysia added that guests were "well taken care of" and "provided with service recovery options".

These options included the choice of a free flight change within six months, credit to their account, or a full refund.

There were also meals and accommodation arrangements on the ground.

The airline's chief executive officer (CEO) emphasised that Air Asia "remains steadfast in upholding the highest safety standards" to ensure its guests' and crew's well-being "at all times".

The CEO added that its crew demonstrated "exceptional professionalism" in managing the Dec. 13 incident, "strictly adhering to all safety protocols".

Top images via Flightradar24 & AirAsia