New Delhi, India — April 26, 2026
Engine Fire Forces Emergency Abort at Delhi Airport
A Swiss International Air Lines flight was forced to abort takeoff at Indira Gandhi International Airport after an engine malfunction triggered a fire on the runway, officials confirmed on Saturday.
The quick response by the flight crew and ground emergency teams helped prevent what could have escalated into a major aviation disaster. At least six passengers sustained minor injuries during the incident and were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
What Happened During Takeoff
According to initial reports, the aircraft operated by Swiss International Air Lines was accelerating on the runway for departure when one of its engines began emitting unusual noises.
Moments later, flames were seen coming from the affected engine. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the pilot immediately aborted the takeoff and alerted Air Traffic Control (ATC), triggering a full-scale emergency response.
Swift Emergency Response Contained the Fire
Airport fire services and emergency crews responded within minutes, successfully extinguishing the blaze and moving the aircraft to a safe area.
Authorities confirmed that all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated following established safety protocols. The coordinated action ensured that the situation remained under control despite the sudden escalation.
Passengers Describe Panic as Smoke Filled Cabin
Passengers onboard reported a tense atmosphere as smoke began to fill parts of the aircraft cabin, causing panic among those seated inside.
Several individuals sustained minor injuries amid the confusion and evacuation process. Officials stated that all injured passengers are in stable condition and received immediate medical attention.
Crew members played a critical role in managing the situation, guiding passengers calmly and ensuring an orderly evacuation.
Operations Briefly Disrupted, Investigation Underway
The incident temporarily disrupted runway operations at the airport, though normal services were restored after a short interval.
Authorities have launched a detailed investigation into the cause of the engine fire. Preliminary findings suggest a technical malfunction, but aviation experts are examining the aircraft’s black box and other systems to determine the exact cause.
Aviation Safety Under Scrutiny
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of stringent safety checks and rapid emergency response systems in aviation.
Officials emphasized that all standard safety procedures were followed and credited the crew’s prompt action for preventing a more serious outcome.
