Severe weather forced a Qingdao Airlines flight carrying 207 passengers and crew to divert to Terengganu on Saturday after failing to land at its primary Malaysian destination.
The Airbus A321neo touched down safely at Sultan Mahmud Airport (LTSM) in Kuala Nerus at approximately 5:30 p.m., according to local authorities managing the unscheduled arrival.
Flight QW907 from China initially attempted to land at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) before encountering adverse weather conditions that blocked the approach. The aircraft subsequently sought to divert to Penang International Airport (LTAAP), but low fuel levels prevented the flight from reaching the northern hub, compelling the crew to redirect toward the east coast.
Following the landing in Kuala Nerus, passengers were temporarily accommodated in the international departure hall at Sultan Mahmud Airport while ground handlers arranged logistics. Airport infrastructure constraints complicated the turnaround, as the facility lacks a direct refueling link connection.
Because the local airport cannot pump aviation fuel directly into aircraft, supplies had to be sourced from neighboring states. Officials indicated that fuel deliveries would likely be transported by road from Kuantan in Pahang or Kota Bharu in Kelantan before the aircraft could be cleared for departure.
Ground transport teams mobilized five separate trips to transfer the 207 stranded travelers to three designated hotels located across the districts of Kuala Terengganu and Kuala Nerus for overnight lodging.
Kuala Terengganu District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Azli Mohd Noor confirmed the arrival of the international flight and said that all individuals on board remained safe throughout the weather diversion.
Airport operations personnel and ground transport crews continue coordination with airline representatives to finalize fuel replenishment schedules and prepare the aircraft for its onward journey once regional weather conditions stabilize.
