- A Nile Air Airbus A321-200 caught fire on takeoff at Dammam Airport.
- The incident occurred on flight NP-232 heading to Cairo with 186 passengers and 8 crew.
- The aircraft was evacuated via slides, and no injuries were reported.
- Emergency teams promptly extinguished the fire.
- Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the fire.
A Nile Air Airbus A321-200 caught fire during takeoff at Dammam (King Fahd International) Airport, leading to an emergency evacuation of 186 passengers and eight crew members.
Nile Air Airbus catches fire: Here’s the latest on the passengers
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From what we understand, the incident occurred in the wee hours of Thursday, July 18, 2024.
The crew rejected the takeoff at around 100 knots over ground, and the aircraft came to a safe stop on the runway.
Emergency services quickly responded to the fire, which was located in the aircraft’s wheel system.
All 186 passengers and eight crew members were evacuated via emergency slides without any injuries. The fire was extinguished promptly, and the situation was brought under control.
What the airline and airport said about the incident
Dammam Airport management issued a statement regarding the incident, confirming that emergency teams had responded swiftly and effectively.
The management assured the public that the fire was contained, and all individuals on board were evacuated safely.
They also stated that the incident had not affected the airport’s overall operations, including takeoffs and landings.
“A specialised team is currently investigating the incident, thoroughly examining the details and determining the root cause. The management has also assured that the incident has not impacted the airport’s takeoff and landing operations,” the statement read.
Nile Air also released a press statement addressing the incident.
The airline confirmed that the flight crew cancelled the takeoff upon detecting the fire in the wheel system and successfully evacuated all passengers and crew without any injuries.
Nile Air promptly provided alternative flights and accommodations to ensure the comfort and safety of the passengers.
“The competent air authorities were notified and a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of the incident was initiated. We are fully cooperating with all concerned parties,” the airline assured.