Mid-Air Disaster Averted! Etihad Chennai-Abu Dhabi flight cancelled after fire erupts on wing

Chennai Airport after a fire was detected on the wing of an Etihad Airways flight bound for Abu Dhabi during take-off preparations. Around 280 passengers were safely evacuated and no injuries were reported.

Post Published By: Rohit Goyal

Updated : 12 May 2026, 1:17 PM IST

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Chennai: Panic gripped passengers at Chennai International Airport on Tuesday after a fire was detected on the left wing of an Etihad Airways flight preparing to depart for Abu Dhabi. The aircraft, carrying nearly 280 passengers, was scheduled to take off when pilots noticed signs of fire and immediately stopped the departure process.

According to airport officials, the crew acted quickly after spotting the issue, preventing what could have turned into a major aviation emergency. All passengers onboard were safely disembarked soon after the incident and no injuries were reported.

The airline later cancelled the flight as a precautionary measure.

Fire Services Responded Immediately

As soon as the fire alert was raised, airport fire service personnel rushed to the spot and managed to bring the blaze under control within a short time. Officials confirmed that the fire was limited to the aircraft’s wing area and did not spread further.

Emergency response teams and airport authorities coordinated evacuation procedures to ensure passenger safety. Several passengers were seen being escorted away from the aircraft while security personnel secured the area around the plane.

According to reports, the incident was handled swiftly, avoiding casualties and major damage.

Cause of Fire Yet to Be Revealed

Authorities have not yet disclosed what caused the fire on the aircraft wing. It also remains unclear whether a technical fault, fuel-related issue or another malfunction triggered the incident.

Officials said further inspections of the aircraft would be conducted before any official statement on the cause is released. Aviation authorities are also expected to examine safety protocols and maintenance records related to the aircraft.

Etihad Airways has not yet issued a detailed public statement regarding the incident.

Passengers Face Delays After Flight Cancellation

Following the cancellation, passengers were shifted back to the terminal and airline staff began making alternate travel arrangements. Some travelers reportedly faced long waiting hours at the airport as officials coordinated rescheduling and assistance.

The incident has once again raised concerns over aircraft safety checks and emergency preparedness during flight operations.