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**SWISS Airbus A220 Diverts to Graz Airport for Emergency Landing Due to Smoke-Filled Cabin, Resulting in Multiple Injuries**
In a dramatic turn of events, a SWISS International Air Lines Airbus A220 was forced to make an emergency landing at Graz Airport in Austria after the cabin filled with smoke, causing panic among passengers and crew. The incident, which occurred on [insert date], has raised concerns about aviation safety and the reliability of the Airbus A220 fleet.
### The Incident
The flight, which was en route from [departure city] to [destination city], was cruising at an altitude of approximately [altitude] feet when passengers began to notice a strong smell of smoke. Within minutes, the cabin became visibly hazy, prompting the flight crew to initiate emergency procedures. Oxygen masks were not deployed, as the smoke did not trigger a depressurization event, but the situation quickly escalated as passengers reported difficulty breathing and irritation to their eyes and throats.
The captain made the critical decision to divert the aircraft to Graz Airport, the nearest suitable location for an emergency landing. The crew declared a "Mayday" and coordinated with air traffic control to ensure a swift and safe descent. The aircraft landed without incident at Graz Airport, where emergency services were on standby.
### Injuries and Medical Response
Upon landing, passengers and crew were evacuated using the aircraft's emergency slides. Several passengers sustained minor injuries during the evacuation process, including sprains and abrasions. Additionally, a number of individuals reported respiratory distress and were treated on-site by paramedics. At least [number] passengers were transported to local hospitals for further evaluation, though none of the injuries were reported to be life-threatening.
The quick response of the Graz Airport emergency teams was instrumental in ensuring the safety of all onboard. The airport's fire and rescue services conducted a thorough inspection of the aircraft to ensure there was no active fire.
### Possible Causes
While the exact cause of the smoke in the cabin remains under investigation, initial reports suggest a potential issue with the aircraft's air conditioning or electrical systems. The Airbus A220, a relatively new addition to the SWISS fleet, has been lauded for its fuel efficiency and advanced technology. However, this incident is not the first time the model has faced scrutiny. In recent years, there have been isolated reports of engine and mechanical issues with the A220, prompting questions about its long-term reliability.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board (STSB) have launched a joint investigation into the incident. Representatives from Airbus and the engine manufacturer, Pratt & Whitney, are also expected to participate in the inquiry.
### Passenger Reactions
Passengers onboard the flight described the experience as terrifying. "It was like a scene from a movie," said one traveler. "The smoke came out of nowhere, and people started coughing and panicking. The crew did their best to keep us calm, but it was a very scary situation."
