An Airbus A320 (CN-NML) passenger aircraft operated by Air Arabia Maroc, the Moroccan subsidiary of UAE-based Air Arabia, experienced a serious technical incident shortly after take-off from Catania Airport on the Italian island of Sicily.
The aircraft, which had departed for Amman (AMM), the capital of Jordan, suddenly lost altitude after take-off, descending to around 60 metres. Records show that during this time, the aircraft reached a speed exceeding 480 kilometres per hour.
Flight data systems triggered a “PULL UP” warning through the Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS). The crew promptly responded to the automatic alert, regained control of the aircraft, and continued the flight safely.
The Italian National Civil Aviation Safety Agency (ANSV) classified the incident as a “serious accident” and launched a technical investigation. Preliminary assessments suggest possible causes such as a take-off configuration error, incorrect weight and balance calculation, or mechanical failure.
Air Arabia Maroc stated that they are aware of the reports regarding the incident and are fully cooperating with the Italian authorities but will not provide further comments until the investigation is completed.
