An Air Arabia flight from Sharjah, UAE, to Taif, Saudi Arabia, was diverted to Riyadh after the smoke detector went off in the cargo compartment of the aircraft.

The aircraft landed safely at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and all passengers and crew were safely evacuated. Following an inspection of the cargo area, no fire was detected on the aircraft, a spokesperson for the Sharjah-based airline said.

Arrangements are now being made for passengers to continue their journey to Sharjah, the spokesperson added.

"Air Arabia flight G9185 bound for Taif (KSA) from Sharjah today (March 17, 2016) was diverted to King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh after the smoke indicator was detected in the cargo compartment," the spokesperson said.

"As a precautionary measure and in keeping with safety standards, flight crew diverted the flight and all passengers and crew were safely evacuated on landing at King Khalid International Airport. On inspection of the aircraft, there was no fire detected. We regret any inconvenience caused. The safety of our passengers and crew remains Air Arabia’s highest priority. All necessary arrangements are being made for our customers to continue their journey."
Source:WAM