Air Busan Plane Catches Fire at Gimhae International Airport
Overview
A South Korean Air Busan plane caught fire in the rear section last night at Gimhae International Airport, causing seven people to sustain mostly minor injuries. The Airbus A321 was set to fly to Hong Kong from the airport in southeastern Busan, but the fire broke out in the rear section, forcing the evacuation of all 169 passengers and seven flight attendants and staff.
The Incident
The fire began to spread after black smoke emerged from the overhead compartment in the back row, according to Yonhap News Agency. Local media reported that the blaze may have been caused by a portable battery stored in the overhead bin as carry-on luggage. The battery became compressed, causing the fire to break out.
Evacuation and Injuries
A total of 169 passengers and seven flight attendants and staff were evacuated down inflatable slides. Authorities initially reported three injuries but revised the number to seven today. One of the injured is currently hospitalized.
Damage and Investigation
The accident left nearly half of the fuselage burnt, but its wings and engines on both sides remain undamaged. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, and it is unclear when the investigation findings will be disclosed.
Passenger Account
A passenger recounted the chaotic and terrifying scene, stating that as the smoke filled the cabin, a passenger seated near the emergency exit opened the door, and the flight attendant opened the opposite one, allowing others to start evacuating.
South Korea’s Aviation Safety Record
South Korea suffered the worst aviation disaster on its soil last month when a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800, flying from Thailand to Muan, crash-landed and exploded into a fireball after slamming into a concrete barrier. That crash killed 179 of the 181 passengers and crew members on board.
Transport Minister’s Statement
Transport Minister Park Sang-woo expressed his condolences to the passengers on board and the public, stating that the incident is a reminder of the importance of aviation safety.
Conclusion
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of aviation safety and the need for vigilance in preventing such incidents. As the investigation continues, it is essential to identify the root cause of the fire and take necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What caused the fire on the Air Busan plane?
A: The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, but local media reports suggest that it may have been caused by a portable battery stored in the overhead bin as carry-on luggage.
Q: How many people were injured in the incident?
A: Seven people sustained mostly minor injuries, with one of them currently hospitalized.
Q: What was the extent of the damage to the plane?
A: The accident left nearly half of the fuselage burnt, but its wings and engines on both sides remain undamaged.
Q: Has the transport ministry commented on the incident?
A: Transport Minister Park Sang-woo expressed his condolences to the passengers on board and the public, stating that the incident is a reminder of the importance of aviation safety.