A major aviation accident was averted at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport on Sunday, April 26, when a Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) flight LX147 experienced an engine fire during its takeoff roll. The flight, bound for Zurich from Delhi, suffered a sudden engine failure followed by a fire. The pilot's quick decision to abort the takeoff saved the lives of hundreds of passengers on board. However, six passengers sustained injuries during the emergency evacuation and have been admitted to the hospital for treatment.
Emergency Evacuation and Passenger Injuries
According to reports, SWISS flight LX147 was in the process of taking off from the runway when one of its engines malfunctioned and caught fire. Seeing the gravity of the situation, the pilot immediately aborted the takeoff and initiated an emergency evacuation. All passengers were evacuated using emergency slides. The airline noted that some passengers were brought out using stairs as they were unable to use the slides. While the situation caused panic among those on board, the crew members managed to handle the evacuation process effectively and ensured everyone's safety.
Flight Details and Passenger Statistics
Officials stated that the Airbus A330 aircraft, operating as flight LX147, began its takeoff run at approximately 1:08 AM when the engine failure occurred. The aircraft was carrying a total of 228 passengers and four infants. Fortunately, all crew members are reported to be safe. The six injured passengers were immediately provided with medical assistance and transported to a nearby hospital for further care following the emergency procedures on the runway.
Official Statement from SWISS Airlines
In an official statement, SWISS Airlines confirmed the incident involving flight LX147 in Delhi. The airline specified that the aircraft involved was an Airbus A330 with 228 passengers and 4 infants on board. The statement explained that shortly after beginning the takeoff procedure around 1:00 AM, a problem was detected in one of the engines, leading the pilot to stop the flight and evacuate the aircraft as a safety precaution. A special team has been constituted by the airline to investigate the technical failure.
The airline's local team is currently assisting the affected passengers by arranging alternative flights or hotel accommodations. Communication is being maintained with all passengers to provide them with travel options as soon as possible. The airline emphasized that a full investigation into the incident will be conducted, and technical experts are expected to arrive in Delhi to inspect the aircraft and determine the exact cause of the engine failure.