An international flight at Logan Airport in Boston aborted its takeoff on Tuesday evening after ground crews and passengers observed flames and smoke coming from the aircraft's engine. The incident occurred as the plane was accelerating down the runway, prompting an immediate response from airport emergency services.
Passengers described a sudden jolt and a loud noise before the aircraft began to brake sharply. No injuries were reported among the passengers or crew, and the plane was safely brought to a stop on the runway.
Key Takeaways
- International flight aborted takeoff at Logan Airport.
- Flames and smoke seen from the aircraft's engine.
- No injuries reported among passengers or crew.
- Incident occurred on Tuesday evening around 6 p.m.
- Airport emergency services responded quickly.
Incident Details and Passenger Accounts
The event unfolded shortly before 6 p.m. on Tuesday. Video footage, including a clip shared on the YouTube channel 'Logan in Flight,' captured a flash of flames from the aircraft's engine. This visual evidence quickly circulated online, showing the severity of the situation.
Passenger Molly Furrer provided a firsthand account to NBC10 Boston. She described the experience from inside the cabin. "We're about halfway down the runway when all of a sudden, there's kind of a boom noise and a big jolt," Furrer stated. This initial jolt was a critical moment for those on board.
"I could feel the plane braking and then started to skid down the runway until it came to a complete stop."
Her description highlights the rapid and forceful braking maneuver. This action was necessary to bring the aircraft to a halt safely after the engine issue became apparent. The flight crew's swift decision-making played a crucial role in preventing a more serious outcome.
Emergency Response at Logan
Following the aborted takeoff, airport emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene. Firefighting vehicles and other emergency personnel quickly surrounded the aircraft. Their presence ensured that any potential fire was contained and that passengers could be safely deplaned if necessary.
The rapid response protocols at Logan Airport are designed to handle such incidents efficiently. These procedures are regularly rehearsed to ensure readiness for various aviation emergencies. The coordination between air traffic control, the flight crew, and ground emergency teams is vital in these situations.
Aviation Safety Fact
Aborted takeoffs, while rare, are a critical safety measure. They occur when a problem is detected before the aircraft reaches a speed where it can no longer stop safely on the runway. Engine failures during takeoff are among the most serious issues that can lead to an aborted takeoff.
Impact on Airport Operations
The incident led to temporary disruptions at Logan Airport. Runway closures are a standard procedure following any aviation incident to allow for investigation and cleanup. This ensures the safety of other flights and passengers.
Airport authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the engine malfunction. This will involve examining the aircraft, reviewing flight data recorders, and interviewing the flight crew. Such investigations are standard practice in aviation to understand failures and improve safety protocols.
Background on Logan Airport
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is one of the busiest airports in the United States. It serves millions of passengers annually and handles thousands of flights, including numerous international routes. The airport has multiple runways and a comprehensive emergency response system in place to manage aviation incidents.
Previous Incidents and Safety Measures
Aviation safety is a top priority for airports and airlines. Strict regulations and maintenance schedules are in place to minimize risks. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), incidents like engine fires are uncommon due to rigorous pre-flight checks and maintenance.
- Pre-flight inspections: Aircraft undergo extensive checks before each flight.
- Regular maintenance: Engines and other critical components are serviced frequently.
- Crew training: Pilots and flight attendants receive extensive training for emergency procedures.
Recently, Logan Airport has been in the news for other aviation-related matters. For example, flight crews have reported being targeted by green lasers near Logan, an issue that the FAA is also investigating. These separate incidents highlight the ongoing challenges in maintaining air safety around busy airspaces.
The airport's ranking in customer satisfaction surveys for 2025 also reflects ongoing efforts to improve passenger experience and operational efficiency. While not directly related to this incident, overall airport performance is often under public scrutiny.
Looking Ahead: Investigation and Future Flights
The specific airline and flight number involved in Tuesday's incident have not been publicly confirmed at the time of this report. However, such information is typically released as part of the official investigation. Passengers from the affected flight were likely rebooked on alternative flights or provided with accommodations.
Investigators will focus on several aspects, including the type of engine, its maintenance history, and the exact sequence of events leading to the fire. Understanding the root cause is essential for preventing similar occurrences in the future. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) may also become involved, depending on the severity and nature of the engine failure.
For travelers, incidents like these can cause anxiety. However, the quick and effective response demonstrates the robust safety systems in place within the aviation industry. The flight crew's ability to react decisively ensured the safety of everyone on board, reinforcing confidence in emergency procedures.
The airport continues to operate, with other flights proceeding as scheduled, though some delays might have occurred on Tuesday evening due to the temporary runway closure. The swift management of the situation minimized wider disruption.
