A Virgin Australia flight became the centre of a major aviation emergency on Tuesday when one of its engines dramatically caught fire during landing at Brisbane Airport.
Flight VA339, carrying passengers from Queenstown, New Zealand, touched down safely but moments later became surrounded by emergency vehicles as witnesses reported seeing flames and smoke erupting from the aircraft's engine.
Emergency Services Spring Into Action
Airport fire and rescue services immediately rushed to the scene as the Airbus A320 came to a halt on the tarmac. Dramatic footage captured by passengers shows orange flames visibly shooting from the engine alongside plumes of dark smoke.
An airport spokesperson confirmed: "The aircraft has landed safely and emergency services are currently responding in line with standard procedures. All passengers have been safely disembarked from the aircraft."
Passenger Accounts of the Terrifying Ordeal
One shaken passenger described the moment they realised something was wrong: "We'd just touched down when I looked out the window and saw bright orange flames coming from the engine. People started gasping and pointing. The crew remained incredibly calm throughout the whole situation."
Another traveller reported hearing loud banging noises followed by the distinct smell of burning as the aircraft taxied toward the terminal.
Runway Closure and Flight Disruptions
The incident forced Brisbane Airport to temporarily close one of its runways, causing significant delays and disruptions to flight schedules throughout the afternoon. Several incoming flights were diverted while airport authorities assessed the situation.
Virgin Australia issued a statement confirming: "Virgin Australia can confirm that flight VA339 from Queenstown to Brisbane experienced an issue with one of its engines upon landing in Brisbane today. The aircraft landed safely and met by emergency services. All guests have disembarked and the aircraft is being assessed by our engineering team."
Investigation Underway
Aviation safety investigators have been notified and are expected to conduct a thorough examination of the aircraft to determine the cause of the engine fire. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has been alerted to the incident.
The affected Airbus A320 remains grounded at Brisbane Airport while engineers work to assess the extent of the damage and identify what caused the terrifying malfunction.
