An Explosion Heard on Qantas Flight Prompts Fire Incident at Sydney Airport
A Qantas flight from Sydney had to return to the airport after triggering a large grass fire during takeoff, with passengers reporting hearing an explosion.
Due to an engine failure on board a Qantas flight carrying 174 passengers, a significant grass fire erupted at Sydney Airport, causing disruptions to other incoming flights.
The airline clarified that it was a “contained engine failure” despite passengers hearing a loud bang, dispelling rumors of an explosion.
No major injuries have been reported so far.
Witnesses captured images and videos of smoke billowing from the airport at the time of the incident and shared them on social media.
Flight QF250 bound for Brisbane had to circle the Greater Sydney area multiple times before successfully landing back at the airport, causing an hour-long delay in both inbound and outbound flights, according to FlightRadar24 data.
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Qantas’ Chief Pilot Captain Richard Tobiano assured that their pilots are well-equipped to handle such emergencies, leading to a safe landing after following proper procedures.
He mentioned, “We understand the distress this may have caused passengers, and we will be providing assistance to all customers affected. An investigation will also be launched to determine the cause of the engine issue.”
Lots of police cars and fire trucks were spotted at the airport, accompanying QF250 during its runway approach.
The flightpath of Qantas flight QF250 on Nov. 8, 2024. Passengers heard a loud bang on takeoff, which the airline said was a “contained engine failure.” Courtesy of FlightRadar24.com
Aviation Rescue and Firefighting teams are actively extinguishing the fire with assistance from Fire and Rescue NSW. The fire is located east of the airport near the third runway close to Sir Joseph Banks Park and Foreshore Drive.
Sydney Airport acknowledged the engine failure and grass fire, stating, “It’s uncertain at this point if the two incidents are related, and investigations are ongoing.”
Their priority is to conduct a thorough inspection of the parallel runway and resume operations promptly to minimize disruptions. While the main runway is functional, passengers should expect some delays and are requested to stay informed via the airport’s flight information boards online.
Qantas is arranging alternative flights for affected passengers to ensure minimal inconvenience.
Airservices Australia issued a statement regarding the incident.
“An engine failure during takeoff caused a grassy area near Runway 34R to catch fire. Airservices’ ARFF teams swiftly contained and extinguished the grass fire.
A 47-minute ground stop was initiated at Sydney Airport by Airservices’ National Operations Management Centre to expedite the safe landing of the aircraft. The ARFF crews met QFA520 upon its secure landing on Runway 34L, with no reported passenger injuries.
Runway 34L was reopened after a safety inspection and cleanup. Runway 34R is anticipated to resume operations later today.
Flight delays due to the runway closure and backlog are expected to cause both airborne and ground delays throughout the afternoon. Travelers flying in or out of Sydney are advised to contact their airlines for any potential impacts.”
The Rural Fire Service has announced a total fire ban across Greater Sydney as hot and windy conditions persist throughout the day.
