Breaking News: Air France Flight AF498 Faces Emergency Over the Azores After Squawking 7700 and Turning Back to Paris, Passengers Safe

Published on November 28, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

A distressing situation unfolded today as Air France flight AF498, en route from Paris to St. Maarten, experienced a serious in-flight emergency while flying over the Azores. The aircraft, which was approximately mid-way through its 7-hour journey, began transmitting a 7700 emergency squawk code, signaling a critical situation that requires immediate attention. As per air traffic control, the aircraft has initiated a return to Paris due to a suspected pressurization issue, with the crew now descending to 10,000 feet.

At approximately 13:50 UTC, the Airbus A350, carrying both passengers and crew, had been cruising over the Atlantic when the issue arose. The flight’s initial route took it westward from France, across Portugal, and toward the Caribbean island of St. Maarten. However, as the plane neared the Azores, a region known for its remote, isolated location in the Atlantic, the flight crew reported a drop in cabin pressure. This issue led to the activation of the squawk code 7700, the international distress signal that pilots use to indicate an emergency situation.

What Happened?

The flight, which had departed from Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris earlier this morning, was roughly 60 minutes from its destination when the situation unfolded. Air France flight AF498 had to turn back toward Paris, as the crew was unable to resolve the pressurization issue in-flight. The aircraft is now descending toward 10,000 feet as a precautionary measure, following standard operating procedures to ensure the safety of the passengers and crew.

Pressurization issues aboard commercial aircraft can be a serious concern as they directly affect the ability to maintain breathable air at high altitudes. When the aircraft’s cabin fails to pressurize properly, it can cause discomfort and danger to passengers, necessitating rapid response from the flight crew. In such situations, pilots are trained to lower the altitude to a safe level where oxygen levels are sufficient for survival.

Where Did This Incident Occur?

The emergency took place over the Azores, an archipelago located off the western coast of Portugal in the Atlantic Ocean. The Azores are a remote part of Portugal and a common point of transit for flights heading from Europe to the Americas, especially flights originating in Paris and other major European airports. The islands have limited infrastructure, but emergency services in the region are equipped to handle such aviation-related incidents.

Why Is This Important?

While the passengers on Air France flight AF498 are reported to be in no immediate danger, the activation of a 7700 squawk code is a clear indicator of the seriousness of the situation. A squawk 7700 signal alerts air traffic controllers and surrounding aircraft to the fact that an emergency is underway. In this case, the problem stemmed from a pressurization issue, which, if left unresolved, could have led to further complications for the flight.

In the event of a pressurization failure, passengers could experience difficulty breathing or dizziness, and in more severe instances, it could lead to hypoxia, where insufficient oxygen reaches the brain. Pilots are well-trained to deal with such emergencies, and their swift action to descend to a lower altitude is a standard and effective response to mitigate these risks.

When Did the Emergency Occur?

The incident unfolded earlier today, but precise timings are being carefully monitored by both Air France and aviation authorities. As the situation progresses, the aircraft is expected to land safely back at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, where emergency teams are on standby to assist with the situation. Updates on the flight’s current status, including its location and estimated arrival time, are being tracked via FlightRadar24.

How Is the Situation Being Managed?

Air traffic controllers have been closely coordinating with the flight crew as they descend and prepare for an emergency landing back in Paris. Given the aircraft’s technical capabilities and the crew’s training, the emergency response has been smooth thus far. Additional details on the status of the passengers and the crew’s actions will be provided once the aircraft lands.

In the meantime, passengers on board have been briefed on the situation, and emergency services are ready for any further developments. Air France, along with local authorities, is ensuring that the crew has all necessary support during this time.

This incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in air travel, where safety protocols and rapid responses are paramount. While pressurization issues are rare, they are taken seriously by airlines, and all procedures are followed to ensure that passengers are kept as safe as possible.

Conclusion:

Air France flight AF498 from Paris to St. Maarten has faced an emergency in the skies over the Azores due to a pressurization issue. The aircraft has been forced to turn back toward Paris, with the crew safely managing the descent and implementing emergency procedures. While the situation is being carefully monitored, there is no immediate danger to passengers. Authorities are providing regular updates on the ongoing situation as the flight makes its way back to Paris.

As we continue to monitor the unfolding situation, it remains critical for travelers to stay informed about real-time updates and safety measures in place. The aviation industry’s preparedness in such cases ensures that emergencies like these are handled with the utmost professionalism, keeping passengers safe even in challenging circumstances.