Introduction
On 25 March 2025, an Air France Airbus A321-200, registration F-GTAZ, operating scheduled passenger service AF-1532 from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (LFPG) to Athens International Airport (LGAV), was forced to divert to Venice Marco Polo Airport (LIPZ) due to reports of a burning odour detected on board during cruise. The aircraft, carrying 198 occupants, landed safely without injury and was met by emergency services upon arrival.
The incident prompted a full precautionary inspection on the runway, with the aircraft later escorted to the apron. A replacement aircraft was dispatched to complete the service to Athens, with a total delay of approximately 6.5 hours.
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Flight and Aircraft Information
• Operator: Air France
• Aircraft Type: Airbus A321-211
• Registration: F-GTAZ
• Engines: 2 × CFM56-5B3/P
• Flight Number: AF-1532
• Route: Paris Charles de Gaulle (LFPG) to Athens Eleftherios Venizelos (LGAV)
• Date of Occurrence: 25 March 2025
• Occupants: 198 (Passengers and Crew)
• Phase of Flight: Cruise
• Location: Approximately 40 nautical miles southeast of Venice, Italy
• Diversion Airport: Venice Marco Polo Airport (LIPZ)
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Sequence of Events
The aircraft departed Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport as scheduled, climbing to its cruising altitude of FL350. While enroute over northern Italy, approximately 40nm southeast of Venice, the flight crew detected an unusual burning odour within the aircraft cabin. The origin of the odour was not immediately apparent.
In accordance with standard operating procedures and safety protocols, the flight crew declared a precautionary diversion to the nearest suitable airport. Coordination with air traffic control enabled an expedited diversion to Venice Marco Polo Airport, with emergency services placed on standby.
The aircraft initiated a controlled descent and performed a safe landing on runway 04R at Venice. Following touchdown, the aircraft came to a stop on the runway for a brief inspection by airport fire and rescue teams. No visible smoke or fire was observed externally. After a short inspection period, the aircraft taxied under its own power to the assigned apron stand.
All passengers disembarked safely without incident or injury. No evacuation was required.
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Post-Landing Actions
Air France dispatched a replacement aircraft, another Airbus A321-200 (registration F-GTAK), which repositioned to Venice to continue the disrupted flight. Passengers were accommodated and transported to Athens, with the total delay recorded at approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes.
As of the latest update, the original occurrence aircraft F-GTAZ remains grounded in Venice pending further technical evaluation and investigation.
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Preliminary Assessment
At the time of reporting, the exact source of the burning odour had not been confirmed. However, initial checks did not reveal any visible signs of overheating, smoke generation, or electrical system failure. A detailed inspection of the aircraft’s environmental control systems, galley equipment, and avionics bay was initiated to identify any potential causes.
Burning odours in commercial aircraft cabins can originate from various systems, including:
• Electrical components or wiring insulation overheating
• Air conditioning packs and bleed air contamination
• Galley ovens or inflight equipment malfunction
• Hydraulic fluid or oil leaks contacting heated components
As a precautionary measure, Air France maintenance teams are conducting full diagnostics on the cabin systems and avionics compartments. Any components suspected to be the source of the odour will be removed for bench testing and analysis.
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Safety and Operational Impact
The flight crew’s decision to divert was consistent with Air France’s safety policy and standard international aviation protocols for in-flight odour or smoke events. The quick response and coordination between the cockpit crew, cabin crew, ATC, and ground emergency personnel ensured a safe outcome for all on board.
No injuries were reported, and there was no damage to the aircraft observed during initial inspections. However, the aircraft has been temporarily withdrawn from service pending a full technical examination.
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Conclusion
On 25 March 2025, Air France flight AF-1532 diverted to Venice following reports of a burning odour in the cabin during cruise. The aircraft landed safely, and all occupants disembarked without incident. A replacement aircraft completed the journey to Athens. The cause of the odour is currently under investigation by Air France technical teams.
The crew’s timely and professional handling of the situation prevented escalation and ensured passenger safety. The aircraft remains grounded in Venice for continued inspection.
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Disclaimer
This report is based on publicly available information as of 26 March 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we cannot guarantee the completeness of the information provided. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
