Not the right thread but:
United Airlines Flight Catches Fire During Takeoff
February 4, 2025 by David Jones
A United Airlines flight destined for New York City was abruptly halted just before takeoff from George Bush Intercontinental Airport when flames were seen erupting from one of its wings. The sudden stop jolted the passengers on board Flight 773, leading to a swift and chaotic evacuation.
Eyewitnesses painted a vivid picture of the terrifying scene. The aircraft, which had been accelerating for takeoff, suddenly came to a grinding halt, jolting back onto the runway. One passenger likened the plane’s erratic movements to fishtailing. As smoke began to fill the cabin, panic ensued, with passengers scrambling for the exits.
In the midst of the chaos, all 104 passengers and crew members were able to evacuate safely. Some used the emergency slides to reach the runway. One passenger expressed relief at being back on solid ground, admitting, “I thought I was going to die.”
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the takeoff was aborted due to a reported engine issue. An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the malfunction.
For some passengers, the incident served as a chilling reminder of recent aviation disasters, making the prospect of boarding another flight daunting. One traveler confessed to hesitating before finally reboarding a different aircraft, stating, “I was the last person. I was scared.”
United Airlines has reiterated that passenger safety is its top priority and is fully cooperating with the FAA’s investigation. The airline is also offering support to those affected by the incident, including rebooking options and counseling services for those traumatized by the experience.
This incident comes at a time when aviation safety is under the microscope, with airlines emphasizing rigorous maintenance and safety checks. The aviation industry is under constant scrutiny to prevent such incidents and ensure passenger safety.
As authorities continue to investigate the cause of the engine malfunction, it serves as a reminder of the complex systems and expert coordination required to maintain air travel as one of the safest modes of transportation.