GACA`s Official Spokesman makes statement

Riyadh, January 01, SPA -- A Saudi Airlines plane sustained today a
technical fault few hours after taking off forcing it to return back
to Al-Madinah-based Prince Mohammed International Airport to land
safely, officials said.

Spokesman of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA)
Abdulhameed bin Hamad Abala'ry stated that none of the 442 passengers
and crew of Flight no. 5004 bounding for Kuala Lumpur were injured or
panicked.

"The pilot told the air traffic control tower that there was an
indication of a fire at engine No. 4, but thanks to Allah Almighty,
the pilot successfully managed to land", the spokesman said.

He explained that an alternative flight to allow the passengers to
depart for their native countries was made available.

GACA has immediately opened investigation into the incident, he
concluded.

--SPA