A recent incident involving a Fiji Air aircraft at Labasa turned alarming when flames erupted from one of its engines while it was on the ground. Business and community leaders were aboard the airline’s new Chinese-built aircraft as it experienced the unexpected fire, which was reportedly visible from inside the cabin.
According to witness accounts, a sudden brightness alerted passengers, prompting Radio Fiji’s Northern Division News Bureau chief, Veresi Bainivualiku, to raise the alarm by shouting, “fire!” As panic ensued, several passengers attempted to escape, including a couple who exited with their two-year-old child before ground crew could set up the emergency ladder. Fortunately, the pilots were able to turn off the engines quickly, mitigating what could have escalated into a more dangerous situation.
Deputy Mayor of Labasa, Bale Korovakaturaga, expressed her alarm when she saw the pilots frantically adjusting their controls after noticing the flames. Despite the immediate panic, she stated it was fortunate the incident occurred while the airplane was still on the ground.
Amid confusion among the ground staff—who were unable to provide timely assistance due to the absence of the airport fire tender—the rapid response of the crew played a crucial role in ensuring safety. The guests were part of a complimentary flight offered by Fiji Air, going on their third and final free trip organized by the airline.
Fiji Air’s director of human resources and commercial services, Satiya Sami, downplayed the situation, explaining that engine overheating that leads to flames is a common occurrence that pilots are trained to handle. He reassured that there was no real danger to the passengers on board.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety protocols in aviation. While the situation was alarming, it demonstrated the effectiveness of emergency preparedness and calm responses from crew members. It highlights the need for continuous improvements in safety standards within the aviation industry, reassuring travelers about their safety in future flights.
Despite the frightening experience, the successful management of the incident reinforces confidence in aviation protocols and the commitment of the airline and local authorities to passenger safety.
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