PETALING JAYA: Malaysia Airlines flight MH79 from Hong Kong to Kuala Lumpur has been unexpectedly diverted to Vietnam.
According to Flightradar24, a flight tracking site, MH79 had departed from Hong Kong at 9.12am local time on Sunday (Nov 24).
However the Boeing 737, which was bound for Kuala Lumpur, landed in Ho Chi Minh City at 11.41am local time.
Malaysia Airlines said the flight was diverted due to a technical issue encountered during cruising.
"In the interest of safety, the pilot in command decided to divert to ensure the issue was rectified before proceeding to the intended destination, Kuala Lumpur.
"At no time was safety compromised," it said in a statement.
Passengers are currently being reallocated to alternative carriers to ensure they reach their destinations while some are accommodated at hotels near the airport.
"Malaysia Airlines deeply regrets the inconvenience and disruptions to our passengers' travel plans," it said adding safety remains its number one priority.
