PUTRAJAYA (Bernama): Global cargo carrier Cargolux Airlines flight CV703, en-route to Zhengzhou, China, returned to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) shortly after take-off on Wednesday (Jan 16) after the aircraft reportedly "experienced fire and smoke in the cockpit".

The Luxembourg-based cargo airline in a statement said an emergency was declared after the crew reported the presence of fire and smoke in the cockpit.

"The operating crew took the decision of returning to Kuala Lumpur where the aircraft safely landed," Cargolux said.

Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB), the KLIA airport operator, said the plane had proceeded for an emergency landing at its Runway 1 (32R) at 8.14pm.

"However, we are glad to note that the aircraft landed safely and the incident didn't involve any casualties," said MAHB in its official social media Twitter and Instagram.

MAHB said the runway was currently closed as Airport Fire Rescue Service team was inspecting the aircraft.

"We are expecting flights to be delayed due to the runway closure. Please check with your airlines on the latest flight schedules," it said.

Cargolux said the crew were able to leave the aircraft unharmed.

It said the authorities had been informed and Cargolux was fully cooperating in the investigation to determine the root cause of the incident. – Bernama