A Malaysia Airlines passenger flight bound for Kuala Lumpur aborted its takeoff at Tokyo's Narita International Airport after black smoke was detected coming from its left engine. According to various international news reports, emergency services received an alert around 10:40 a.m. local time stating that smoke was rising from the Airbus A330-300 as it taxied onto the runway for departure. The flight crew immediately halted the departure sequence, and broad news media footage showed the aircraft stationary on the tarmac surrounded by multiple fire engines and ambulances responding to the scene. Transport ministry officials confirmed that all 160 passengers and crew members on board Flight MH89 were uninjured and safely disembarked once the area was secured.

The incident caused noticeable disruptions to operations across the airport. Global news outlets and airport authorities confirmed that Runway A was temporarily shut down for over two hours to allow emergency teams to work and inspectors to perform sweep checks. During these inspections, scattered metal fragments were cleared from the airstrip before operations resumed at 1:07 p.m. local time. While incoming arrivals operated without major issues, dozens of departing flights experienced delays. In statements covered by multiple international media agencies, the airline announced the official cancellation of the flight and stated that engineering teams are conducting a technical inspection of the aircraft. All 160 affected passengers were provided with hotel accommodations, meal vouchers, and rebooking options for subsequent flights to Malaysia.