Passengers onboard a Ryanair flight were forced to evacuate just before takeoff after an ‘explosion’ caused a fire to break out.
Nobody onboard the flight from Brindisi to Turin was injured during the explosion at Aeroporti di Puglia this morning, which reportedly occurred due to a malfunction during taxiing.
Local media reported a ‘strong flame’ being spotted on the runway, while passengers rushed down the inflatable slide by the plane’s front door while gripped by a ‘moment of fear’.
It is not known what caused the explosion, but the airport has been temporarily closed following the incident.
In a statement released to Italian press, he airport said: ‘Aeroporti di Puglia announces that due to a problem with a departing aircraft, it was necessary to close the Salento Airport in Brindisi.
‘The problem, which occurred when the aircraft was already aligned at the head for take-off, required the evacuation of passengers via emergency slides.
‘All operations were carried out with maximum safety for passengers and crew. The passengers are already at the airport where they are being assisted by Aeroporti di Puglia personnel.
‘The company’s technicians are working on the interventions within their competence and necessary so that Aeroporti di Puglia can proceed with the subsequent checks on the usability of the runway and proceed with the reopening of the airport.’
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