Smartwings Flight Returns to Prague After Engine Failure Shortly After Takeoff

A Smartwings flight from Prague to Israel with 189 passengers had to return to Prague Airport shortly after takeoff due to an engine malfunction. The incident occurred late at night on August 10, 2026, when an unusual noise was heard about 15 minutes after departure, prompting the crew to turn back as a precaution. Emergency teams were on standby at the airport for the plane's return. No injuries were reported, and all passengers were safely transferred to a replacement aircraft that departed for Israel around 6:15 a.m. after a delay of approximately five hours. Israeli singer Adi Cohen, who was on board, described the event as one of the scariest moments she had experienced but confirmed the safe emergency landing back in Prague.