Sepehran Airlines Boeing 737-300 Makes Emergency Landing in Mashhad After Engine Malfunction

A Sepehran Airlines Boeing 737-300 experienced a harrowing incident on September 14, when it was forced to return for an emergency landing at Mashhad airport in Iran shortly after takeoff.

According to Iranian authorities, the outer rubber tread separated from one of the aircraft's tires during takeoff, while the pilot reported an engine malfunction. The plane shook violently, with ceiling panels falling and passengers shouting and praying as they prepared for a safe landing.

The flight, which was traveling from Mashhad to Kermanshah, had been delayed twice before taking off at 5:39 p.m. local time. No injuries were reported, and all passengers were safely evacuated after the plane landed safely.

Investigations are ongoing into the cause of the malfunction, with no clear indication yet whether it was related to the tire issue or a separate engine problem. The incident comes amid heightened scrutiny of Iran's aviation sector, which has been hit by US sanctions and allegations of using its airlines for illicit activities.