Air Busan Plane Catches Fire in Gimhae

GIMHAE, South Korea – In a dramatic and alarming incident at Gimhae International Airport, an Air Busan aircraft burst into flames yesterday, leaving seven passengers injured and prompting an immediate emergency response. The incident, which unfolded just as the plane was preparing for departure, has raised concerns about aviation safety and led authorities to launch a thorough investigation into the cause of the blaze.
According to eyewitness reports, the fire broke out suddenly on one of the plane’s engines shortly before takeoff. At approximately 10:15 AM local time, passengers seated in the cabin began to notice unusual smoke and a strong burning odor. Within moments, flames were visible on the wing, prompting the flight crew to initiate emergency procedures. “We were startled by the rapid onset of the fire, but the crew’s swift actions helped to calm everyone down,” recalled one passenger, who wished to remain anonymous.
Emergency services at Gimhae International Airport reacted with remarkable speed. Firefighters and rescue teams rushed to the scene, quickly deploying hoses and other firefighting equipment to control the blaze. “Our team responded immediately to the emergency call. Thanks to their prompt action, we were able to contain the fire before it could spread further,” said a spokesperson from the airport’s fire department. The injured passengers were promptly evacuated from the aircraft and transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Hospital officials confirmed that while all seven individuals sustained injuries, most are expected to recover fully with appropriate medical care.
Air Busan, a well-regarded low-cost carrier in South Korea, has maintained a strong safety record over the years. This incident marks one of the few emergencies involving the airline, and company representatives expressed relief that there were no fatalities. “Our hearts go out to the affected passengers and their families,” said an Air Busan representative during a press briefing. “We are fully cooperating with the authorities to determine the root cause of this incident and to ensure that all necessary safety measures are reinforced.”
Preliminary investigations suggest that a mechanical malfunction may have triggered the engine fire. Aviation experts indicate that while modern aircraft are equipped with advanced safety systems, unexpected technical issues can occasionally occur. “Even with rigorous maintenance and safety protocols, the possibility of a mechanical failure cannot be entirely ruled out,” noted an independent aviation analyst. Authorities are currently examining maintenance records and flight data recorders to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the fire.
The incident has not only disrupted the operations at Gimhae International Airport but has also raised questions about the current state of aviation safety measures in the region. Local officials have assured the public that the investigation will be conducted with utmost transparency. “We are committed to a comprehensive review of all relevant factors, including the aircraft’s maintenance history and the response procedures implemented during the emergency,” stated a senior official from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport.
Passengers aboard the ill-fated flight have spoken of the professionalism displayed by the cabin crew during the ordeal. One traveler described the evacuation as orderly and calm despite the chaos unfolding around them. “The crew provided clear instructions and helped ensure that everyone could leave the aircraft safely. Their calm demeanor under pressure was truly commendable,” the passenger remarked.
As authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire, airport operations remain partially affected, with several flights experiencing delays and diversions. The airport administration is working diligently to clear the affected area and resume normal operations as quickly as possible.
This unfortunate event serves as a reminder of the critical importance of stringent safety protocols and regular maintenance in the aviation industry. With the investigation underway, both Air Busan and the regulatory bodies are determined to learn from this incident and implement any necessary changes to prevent similar occurrences in the future.