WILLEMSTAD – Corendon flight CD598 from Curaçao to Amsterdam, initially scheduled to depart Monday night at 12:30 AM, was delayed due to technical issues. The flight eventually took off this morning at 6:30 AM. According to Corendon, several passengers, after a previous evacuation from the plane, refused to reboard and remained in Curaçao.
The technical problems began when a malfunctioning ground unit at Hato Airport caused the air conditioning on the replacement aircraft to fail. This resulted in extreme heat inside the cabin. Cabin crew temporarily evacuated passengers while a solution was sought. However, because it was late at night, no aviation personnel were available to perform certain procedures, further complicating the situation.
Corendon spokesperson Norman Serphos emphasized that safety is always the top priority. “A plane only departs when all stringent safety standards are met,” said Serphos. The company expressed regret over the delay and apologized to affected passengers. The incident is being thoroughly reviewed in collaboration with the aircraft operator, World2Fly, and the ground handling company, Swissport.
The delay was also prolonged by mandatory crew rest periods. Ultimately, 81 passengers departed on flight CD598 to Amsterdam, while those who refused to board stayed in Curaçao. Corendon has promised measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Amsterdam Arrival
The ordeal continued upon arrival at Schiphol Airport, according to several passengers. Miscommunication delayed the opening of the gate, and baggage issues arose as luggage was left behind in Curaçao. Passengers voiced frustration about poor communication from Corendon.