Qantas flight turns back after 'unusual smell' detected onboard

QANTASLINK BOEING 717-231 VH-NXN (MSN 55095)

A Qantas flight was forced to turn back and crew members were taken to hospital after an 'unusual smell' was detected onboard.

The QF1798 flight from Brisbane to Rockhampton on Sunday night was forced to return to the Queensland capital after cabin crew noted the strange scent in the aircraft's galley.

Five cabin crew members were assessed by paramedics on arrival in Brisbane after reportedly being affected by fumes on board.

Ambulance Queensland said two women in their 20s were treated for symptoms, including nausea and headaches, about 8.26pm after reportedly being affected by fumes.

“Both patients were transported in stable conditions to Prince Charles Hospital,” Ambulance Queensland said in a statement.

'No passengers were impacted by the smell. All are being re-accommodated on flights this morning.'

Passengers had to spend the night in Brisbane and travel to Rockhampton on Monday morning.

The flight was supposed to leave Brisbane at 6.10pm on Sunday and arrive in the central Queensland town at 7.20pm. but it didn't get away until after 7pm.

QF1798 departed runway 01L at 7.03pm, then 20 minutes later at 7.23pm, the 717 turned back and landed on runway 01L at 7.54pm.

Aircraft Information:

Airline: Qantas Airways

Code: QF/QFA

Aircraft: Boeing 717-231

Registration: VH-NXN

Serial Number: 55095

Engines: 2 x BMW RR BR715

First Flew: 19/10/2001

Age: 21 Yrs. 7 Mts.