Six Injured After Swiss Air Flight Aborts Takeoff at Delhi Airport

Six passengers were injured after a Swiss Air flight bound for Zurich aborted takeoff and was evacuated on the runway at New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport early Sunday morning.

The incident occurred during the aircraft’s takeoff roll when one of its engines reportedly malfunctioned and caught fire, forcing the flight crew to halt the departure immediately and activate emergency evacuation procedures.

According to reports, the Zurich-bound aircraft had begun accelerating down the runway when the engine failure was detected. The crew quickly brought the plane to a stop and initiated a full evacuation using emergency slides.

Airport emergency services responded within minutes, assisting passengers and crew as they exited the aircraft. The fire was brought under control shortly after the incident, preventing further damage and ensuring the safety of everyone on board.

Six passengers sustained injuries during the evacuation and were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities said the injuries were not believed to be life-threatening. Most of those hurt are understood to have suffered minor injuries, including bruises and abrasions, which are common during rapid emergency evacuations.

All remaining passengers and crew were safely evacuated from the aircraft. Swiss Air has not yet disclosed the total number of people on board at the time of the incident.

Operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport were not significantly affected, although the runway was temporarily closed while emergency teams secured the area and conducted an initial inspection.

Airline officials said passenger safety remains their highest priority and that affected travelers are being provided with assistance, including medical support, alternative travel arrangements and accommodation where necessary.

A detailed investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the engine failure and subsequent fire. Aviation safety authorities, along with airline engineers and airport officials, are expected to examine the aircraft, review maintenance records and analyze flight data.

Engine-related incidents during takeoff are rare, but aviation experts note that flight crews are extensively trained to respond to such emergencies. Standard procedures require an immediate abort if a serious mechanical problem arises before the aircraft becomes airborne.

The swift response by the pilots and emergency teams helped prevent a potentially more serious situation. Passengers described a tense but orderly evacuation as cabin crew directed everyone off the aircraft as quickly as possible.

Swiss Air is expected to issue a further statement once more details become available. The incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of emergency preparedness in aviation and the effectiveness of established safety protocols in protecting lives.