SWISS Delhi-Zurich flight aborts takeoff at Delhi IGI airport after smoke from engine; 6 injured

A major aviation scare unfolded in the early hours of Sunday at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport when a SWISS flight bound for Zurich was forced to abort takeoff after an engine-related issue triggered smoke, prompting a full emergency response and evacuation of passengers.

The aircraft, operating as SWISS Flight LX147, was accelerating on the runway when the problem was detected, leading the crew to halt the takeoff and initiate emergency procedures.

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According to initial reports, smoke was seen coming from the left side of the aircraft during takeoff roll. The crew immediately aborted takeoff and assessed the situation before deciding to evacuate the aircraft as a precaution.

The Airbus A330 had 232 passengers on board, including four infants, along with crew members. All occupants were safely evacuated using emergency slides, though some required assistance via stairs.

Six passengers suffered injuries during the evacuation process and were shifted to a nearby hospital for medical attention. The airline confirmed that no crew members were injured.

Full emergency declared

Delhi Airport authorities confirmed that a full emergency was declared following the incident on Runway 28/10. Emergency services responded immediately, and all safety protocols were activated.

In a post, the airport said all passengers were evacuated safely and normal airport operations continued without disruption.

Timeline of events

• Around 1:08 am: Aircraft begins takeoff roll on Runway 28 when an engine issue is detected. Shortly after, the crew aborts takeoff and declares an emergency.
• Around 2:00 am: Incident escalates; evacuation of passengers initiated using emergency slides.
• Around 2:06 am: Fire department was alerted to a “full hydraulic emergency”; five fire tenders were dispatched.
• Around 3:30 am: Situation brought under control; aircraft secured and emergency response concluded

Airline begins probe, assistance for passengers

Authorities and airline officials are continuing investigations into what caused the engine malfunction.

SWISS said its technical experts will travel to Delhi to inspect the aircraft and determine the cause of the malfunction. Efforts are underway to arrange alternative travel and accommodation for affected passengers.

“Passengers are being assisted on site. We are working intensively to arrange re-bookings or hotel accommodation,” the airline said, acknowledging the stress caused by the incident.

“They have received contact cards to ensure we can reach them reliably. Such a situation is stressful for everyone involved. Our local teams are taking care of our passengers on site,” the airline added.