SAD NEWS: Airbus Erupts in Flames During Final Approach to Delhi Airport
By Staff Reporter | September 26, 2025 | New Delhi
New Delhi – Panic and chaos gripped passengers aboard an international Airbus A320 on Friday evening when the aircraft caught fire just moments before landing at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi.
According to airport officials and eyewitness reports, the incident occurred around 6:40 PM IST as the flight — believed to be operating from Dubai to Delhi — was making its final descent into the capital city. Plumes of smoke and visible flames were seen near the aircraft’s left engine, prompting immediate response from air traffic control and emergency services on the ground.
Emergency Response Activated
The pilot issued a mayday call moments after the fire was detected, informing the tower of an onboard emergency. Firefighting teams stationed at the airport sprang into action, lining the runway with foam and preparing for a possible crash landing. Fortunately, the crew managed to bring the aircraft down safely, albeit under extreme circumstances.
“All emergency protocols were followed. The aircraft landed safely despite the fire, and evacuation was carried out promptly,” said Rajeev Kumar, spokesperson for the Airports Authority of India (AAI). “Thanks to the quick response from the pilots and ground crew, a major tragedy was averted.”
Passengers Evacuated
There were 178 passengers and 7 crew members on board the Airbus A320. Emergency slides were deployed immediately after the plane came to a halt on the tarmac. Within minutes, all passengers were safely evacuated from the aircraft, though several suffered minor injuries during the hasty disembarkation.
“I smelled something burning and saw smoke near the window. People started screaming, but the crew remained calm and helped everyone move quickly,” said Priya Mehta, a passenger traveling with her two children. “It was terrifying, but we’re lucky to be alive.”
Medical teams on-site treated at least 12 people for smoke inhalation and minor bruises. None of the injuries were reported to be life-threatening.
Investigation Underway
Preliminary reports suggest that the fire originated in the aircraft’s left engine, possibly due to a technical malfunction or a bird strike during descent. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a formal investigation into the incident, and the aircraft has been grounded for a thorough inspection.
“We will be looking into flight data, maintenance records, and speaking with the crew to determine the exact cause of the fire,” said DGCA Chief Arun Thakur. “Safety is our top priority, and any negligence or technical lapse will be dealt with strictly.”
The airline, whose name has not been officially released pending investigation, has issued a brief statement expressing relief that all passengers and crew are safe.
Flights Delayed
Operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport were temporarily halted for nearly 45 minutes as emergency services dealt with the situation. Several incoming flights were diverted or delayed, causing disruption to Friday evening traffic.
Normal operations resumed later in the evening once the runway was cleared and deemed safe.
Public Reaction and Praise for Crew
News of the incident spread quickly across social media, with many users expressing shock and calling the safe landing a “miracle.” Others praised the professionalism of the flight crew and the swift action by emergency responders.
“This could have ended so differently. The fact that everyone made it out alive is a testament to the training and courage of the crew,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter).
As the investigation continues, passengers are being offered counseling and support by the airline. More details are expected to emerge in the coming
