An alarming incident unfolded early on Sunday, 26 April, involving a Swiss International Air Lines flight, which had to abort its takeoff due to an engine fire. The Airbus A330-300, designated for a journey from Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi to Zurich Airport in Switzerland, was just moments away from departure when the emergency occurred shortly after 1:00 a.m. local time.
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The aircraft was carrying a total of 232 passengers, including four infants, alongside a crew of 13. Reports indicate that the plane reached a speed of approximately 120 miles per hour before the engine failure forced the pilots to make the critical decision to abort takeoff. In a rapid response, the crew ordered the evacuation of all on board using emergency slides deployed on the runway.
Emergency services were on hand as the situation developed. The runway was subsequently closed for about three hours to facilitate the safe evacuation of passengers and to remove the aircraft from the active area. Initial reports suggest that four passengers and one crew member sustained injuries during the evacuation process, with the injured receiving treatment at Medanta Hospital in nearby Gurgaon.
As the situation unfolded, emergency medical teams attended those affected. According to local news sources, two passengers left the hospital against medical advice, another was discharged following initial treatment, and one individual remained under evaluation as of Monday, 27 April. The crew member suffered a sprained ankle during the chaotic evacuation and was also treated at the facility.
In response to the incident, Indira Gandhi International Airport declared a “full emergency” and assured the public that all necessary safety protocols were followed. Swiss International Air Lines confirmed in a statement that a task force had been established in light of the incident. The airline’s spokesperson provided details regarding the abrupt engine issue, which led to the crew’s decision to reject the takeoff and evacuate the aircraft as a precaution.
Local teams from SWISS quickly mobilised to assist passengers, working diligently to arrange rebookings and hotel accommodations as needed. The airline ensured that passengers would have contact cards to facilitate ongoing communication and support during this stressful time. Their comprehensive statement emphasised a commitment to the welfare of the affected individuals.
Authorities from the Indian Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) are set to commence an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation is also involved, coordinating with their European counterpart, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, to ensure a thorough investigation is conducted.
As the aftermath of the incident continues to unfold, inquiries have been made to both Indira Gandhi International Airport and Swiss International Air Lines for additional comments. At the time of reporting, these organisations had not provided further details.
Passengers aboard the flight have been understandably shaken by the experience, as the tension and fear of a potential disaster transformed into a scramble for safety. Eyewitnesses have described the scene as chaotic, but praise has been directed towards the crew for their composed and prompt response during the crisis.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with air travel, and the importance of stringent safety measures in the aviation industry. Investigations undertaken by aviation authorities will hopefully shed light on the causal factors behind the engine failure and ensure preventive measures are enforced to avert future occurrences.