A Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) flight from Delhi to Zurich was forced to abort take off after an engine fire broke out. This prompted an emergency evacuation on the runway.
Engine fire forces the rejection of take-off
The Airbus A330 operating flight LX147 experienced an engine failure during the take off roll at Indira Gandhi International (DEL) Airport in the early hours of April 26, 2026.
According to initial reports, the crew identified the issue as one of the aircraft’s engines catching fire, and the pilots carried out a rejected take off at speed. The pilots brought the aircraft to a stop on the runway before initiating emergency procedures.
A full emergency response was activated at the airport as smoke and flames were reported from the affected engine.
Passengers evacuated via emergency slides
All passengers and crew were evacuated using emergency slides directly onto the runway. The aircraft was carrying more than 230 people, including infants.
Several passengers sustained injuries during the evacuation, with reports indicating that around four to six people required hospital treatment, mostly for minor injuries. Several passengers were transported to the hospital as a precautionary measure. All passengers have since been discharged from hospital.
The airline has confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the engine failure. Technical teams are expected to inspect the aircraft in Delhi.
The incident highlights how critical rejected take off procedures and rapid evacuation protocols are in preventing more serious outcomes during high-risk phases of flight.
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