A Virgin Australia Boeing 737-800 aircraft, en route from Queenstown to Melbourne, had to make an emergency landing in Invercargill, New Zealand, following an engine fire mid-flight. The incident prompted swift action from emergency services and airport authorities.
The New Zealand fire service confirmed the engine fire and reported that fire trucks were ready to meet the plane upon its arrival in Invercargill, approximately 50 minutes after departing Queenstown. The emergency landing was announced through Queenstown Airport’s official channels.
Details regarding the cause of the engine fire and the exact number of passengers onboard remain under investigation. A spokesperson for Queenstown Airport mentioned that these specifics were not immediately available.
Virgin Australia, in a statement, mentioned the possibility of a bird strike as a potential cause for the engine fire. Passengers onboard also reported encountering bird strikes shortly after takeoff.
Bird strikes are a known hazard in aviation, causing significant damage and operational disruptions. According to a study by the University of Nebraska, bird strikes cost the commercial aviation industry billions of dollars due to diversions and accidents resulting from such incidents.
Witnesses at the scene reported hearing loud noises, described as “loud bangs,” following the plane’s departure and observed the engine catching fire. Investigations into the incident are ongoing to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the engine malfunction.
The safe emergency landing underscores the importance of swift and efficient emergency response protocols in ensuring the safety of passengers and crew during unexpected aviation incidents.
Sources By Agencies
