Sequence & Resolution
Event Date05/02/2026
Level
Incident
CategoryCabin Odour
Flight PhaseEn Route
Technical Issue DetailsWhile climbing past flight level FL250 after departing London Heathrow for Toronto, the crew of flight AC853 detected an electrical smell and light haze spreading from the mid-galley to the forward galley.
Outcome / HandlingThe flight crew declared a PAN PAN emergency, halted the climb, and performed a precautionary return to London Heathrow Airport. The aircraft landed safely despite being overweight and was met on arrival by airport emergency services.
Current StatusNo injuries were reported among the passengers and crew. The aircraft was temporarily grounded at London Heathrow for maintenance and inspection to locate the source of the electrical odor.
Flight Information
Flight NumberAC853