An Air Busan Airbus plane caught fire at Gimhae International Airport in South Korea while preparing for departure to Hong Kong, causing anxiety over aviation safety.
The Air Busan A321 Evacuation: How it Happened
An Air Busan Airbus A321 aircraft experienced a fire incident at Gimhae International Airport in Busan, South Korea, leading to a swift and successful evacuation of all 176 passengers and crew members. The fire, originating in the tail section of the aircraft, was reported a little while before 10:30 p.m. local time.
Emergency Response and Evacuation
Emergency protocols were activated immediately. Firefighting crews swiftly responded to the scene, effectively containing the blaze and preventing further escalation. All passengers and crew members were safely evacuated from the aircraft via emergency slides.
However, three individuals sustained minor injuries during the evacuation process, but there were no reported fatalities.
Controversial Footage
Footage from local news outlets captured the dramatic scene, showcasing the deployment of emergency slides on both sides of the single-aisle aircraft as firefighters battled the blaze. Subsequent footage revealed significant burn damage along the length of the fuselage roof, underscoring the severity of the incident.
Recent Aviation Incidents
This incident follows the tragic deadliest air disaster in South Korea in July, where a Jeju Air plane crashed during an emergency landing at Muan Airport, resulting in the loss of 179 lives. This recent event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust aviation safety measures and the need for continuous vigilance in maintaining the highest standards of air travel.
Airline and Aircraft Information
Air Busan, a budget airline and subsidiary of Asiana Airlines, was recently acquired by Korean Air in December. The aircraft involved in the incident is a 17-year-old Airbus A321ceo model with tail number HL7763, according to the Aviation Safety Network, a reputable database maintained by the Flight Safety Foundation.
Conclusion
– Investigation and Response
Airbus has acknowledged the incident and is at present, liaising with Air Busan to help in the investigation. Both airlines have at this time, yet to release official statements regarding the cause of the fire.
