The engine of a plane belonging to Air China burst into flames and the aircraft had to make an emergency landing at Changi Airport earlier today (10 September) at about 4.15pm.
The Harrowing Incident
The ordeal began when passengers onboard the Air China flight en route to Singapore noticed smoke filling the plane’s forward cargo hold and lavatory. Panic and confusion gripped the cabin as passengers tried to make sense of the situation.
With the safety of all passengers and crew as the top priority, the pilot swiftly took action. The decision to descend and make an emergency landing was made at approximately 4:15 pm.
The aircraft touched down on Runway 3, and the flight crew and the emergency response teams on the ground h helped to evacuate all passengers and crew. The fire that had engulfed the engine was also promptly extinguished.
hotos and videos circulated on social media platforms, revealing smoke inside the plane. Passengers could also be seen exiting the aircraft via evacuation slides with their belongings in hand
Response and Support
Both Air China and Changi Airport Group immediately sprang into action to provide assistance to the passengers and crew affected by this incident.
In the wake of the emergency landing, Runway 3 at Changi Airport was temporarily closed. This measure was taken to assess any potential damage and ensure the safety of all subsequent flights.
Pratt&Whitney engine on fire, Air China flight evacuated on Singapore runway.
— FATIII Aviation (@FATIIIAviation) September 10, 2023
CA403 TFU-SIN squawking 7700 shortly before landing at Singapore due to PW1100G engine fire. Heavy smoke in cabin, crew evacuated the plane on runway.
The aircraft is a 4-year old A320neo B-305J. pic.twitter.com/CHBTPt8Du2
Changi Airport’s statement
An Air China flight (CA403) from Chengdu encountered smoke in the forward cargo hold and lavatory on route to Changi Airport. The aircraft landed on Runway 3 at around 1615 hrs and all passengers and crew have evacuated safely. The fire in the left engine has been put out.
Air China and Changi Airport Group are providing assistance to the passengers and crew.
Arising from this incident, Runway 3 will be temporarily closed and flight operations may be affected. Passengers should check the Changi Airport website or app for the latest information on their flights. Updates to follow.
Changi Airport’s updated statement
Images source: @FATIIIAviation on X