India
oi-Gaurav Sharma
Panic unfolded on the runway at Indira Gandhi International Airport in the early hours of Sunday when a Zurich-bound aircraft operated by Swiss International Air Lines was forced to abort takeoff after an engine malfunction triggered a fire scare.
Flight LX147, an Airbus A330, had begun its takeoff roll shortly after 1 am when the crew detected a technical issue as the aircraft picked up speed. Acting swiftly, the pilots rejected the takeoff, bringing the aircraft to a halt on the runway.
Swiss flight LX147 aborted takeoff at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport early Sunday due to an engine malfunction and fire scare, prompting an emergency evacuation where 6 passengers were injured and taken to hospital.
What followed was a rapid emergency evacuation. Passengers were instructed to exit the aircraft using inflatable slides, descending directly onto the runway in the dark. The urgency of the situation led to chaos, with six passengers sustaining injuries during the evacuation. They were later taken to hospital for treatment, while others were escorted safely back to the terminal.
Airport authorities immediately suspended operations on the affected runway as emergency and ground teams secured the aircraft and began removal procedures.
In its response, SWISS confirmed that all crew members were unharmed and that the evacuation was carried out as a precaution after an issue was detected in one of the engines. The airline has activated a task force and said technical experts will examine the aircraft to determine what went wrong.
Stranded passengers are now being assisted with rebooking and accommodation, as the airline works to restore normal travel plans.
The incident once again highlights how quickly routine departures can turn into high-alert situations, with safety protocols playing a critical role in preventing a far more serious outcome.
