In a heart-stopping incident that could have ended in tragedy, a Cathay Pacific passenger jet was forced to abort takeoff at Hong Kong International Airport after one of its engines erupted in flames.
The dramatic emergency unfolded on Monday evening as flight CX880, bound for Los Angeles with over 300 people onboard, began accelerating down the runway. Terrified passengers watched in horror as flames shot from the aircraft's engine, prompting pilots to make the split-second decision to cancel takeoff.
Chaotic Scenes as Evacuation Slides Deploy
Panic ensued as emergency evacuation slides were immediately deployed, with travellers scrambling to safety down the inflatable chutes. Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of chaos and confusion as people fled the potentially doomed aircraft.
One shaken passenger recounted: "We heard a massive bang and saw fire coming from the engine. People started screaming as the plane came to an abrupt halt. The crew were shouting for everyone to evacuate immediately."
Emergency Services Swing Into Action
Hong Kong's emergency services responded with impressive speed, with fire engines and ambulances racing to the scene within minutes. Video footage captured by bystanders shows emergency vehicles surrounding the stricken aircraft as smoke billowed from the engine.
The Airport Authority Hong Kong confirmed the serious incident, stating that the Airbus A330 had experienced an engine problem during takeoff that necessitated the emergency abort procedure.
Injuries Reported Amid Chaotic Evacuation
While miraculously avoiding any fatalities, the chaotic evacuation did result in several injuries. At least nine passengers required medical attention, mainly for minor cuts, bruises, and the effects of smoke inhalation during their frantic escape from the aircraft.
All affected travellers received immediate treatment at the scene, with the most seriously injured being transported to nearby hospitals for further care.
Cathay Pacific Issues Statement
In an official statement, Cathay Pacific Airways confirmed: "Flight CX880 from Hong Kong to Los Angeles aborted takeoff due to a technical issue. The aircraft returned to the bay and passengers disembarked normally."
The airline has launched a full investigation into the cause of the engine failure and subsequent fire, working closely with aviation authorities to determine what went wrong.
Flight Operations Severely Disrupted
The incident caused significant disruption at one of the world's busiest airports, with the disabled aircraft blocking the runway and forcing the cancellation of multiple flights. Departing passengers faced lengthy delays as airport staff worked to clear the scene and resume normal operations.
Aviation experts have praised the flight crew's quick thinking, noting that their decision to abort takeoff likely prevented a major disaster. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical safety procedures that protect millions of air travellers worldwide.
