Malaysia Airlines flight makes emergency return to Paris after guidance system alert

By Phan Anh January 8, 2026 | 12:31 am PT

Malaysia Airlines planes are seen parked at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Malaysia, Oct. 6, 2020. Photo by Reuters

A Malaysia Airlines flight from Paris was forced to turn back shortly after takeoff on Jan. 7 after the crew reported a guidance system issue.

Flight MH21, operated by an Airbus A350, departed Charles de Gaulle Airport at 11:55 a.m. local time, about 45 minutes behind schedule due to snowy conditions, according to flight-tracking website FlightAware.

Soon after takeoff, the aircraft stopped climbing at around 4,572 meters while flying over central France. The crew then declared a general emergency by transmitting the transponder code "squawk 7700" after detecting a malfunction in the plane's guidance system, The Straits Times reported.

The guidance system helps automate flight operations by managing altitude, speed, direction and vertical trajectory through systems such as the autopilot and Flight Management System, reducing pilot workload and supporting safe operations, especially in poor visibility.

FlightAware data shows the aircraft returned to Paris and landed safely at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 3:36 p.m. local time. No injuries were reported, according to The Star.