Scare as Tigerair flight diverts after 'unusual odour' detected in cabin

A Tigerair flight has been diverted and three passengers taken to hospital after an "unusual odour" was noticed in the cabin.

Flight TT644 was flying from Adelaide to Sydney when it was diverted to Melbourne's Tullamarine Airport last night.

The plane landed at 8.10pm without incident.

A Tigerair Australia spokesperson said the aircraft was diverted as a "precautionary measure".

"In accordance with standard operating procedures, the Captain made the decision to divert after an unusual odour was detected in the cabin.

"The aircraft was met on arrival by emergency services as a precautionary measure, all passengers and crew disembarked the aircraft safely.

"An inspection of the aircraft by engineers revealed a mechanical issue with a small power unit onboard, but no damage to the system has been caused and the aircraft has been cleared to return to service this morning.

"All passengers were re-accommodated on another flight this morning and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused."

Ambulance Victoria crews treated six patients who suffered ear problems.

Three people – a man in his 60s, a man in his 30s and a man in his 20s – were taken to the Northern Hospital in stable conditions.