An alarming fire on an Air Busan A321 led to chaotic scenes at Busan Airport, as passengers struggled to escape. The incident occurred shortly after a recent aviation tragedy in the country, raising fears and frustration among those onboard.
Chaos Erupts as Flames Engulf Plane at Busan Airport
Chaos Erupts as Flames Engulf Plane at Busan Airport
A fire broke out on an Air Busan flight just before takeoff, resulting in panic among nearly 170 passengers amidst a recent tragic aviation disaster in South Korea.
On the night of January 29, 2025, passengers aboard Air Busan Flight ABL391 faced a life-threatening situation as flames engulfed the rear of the aircraft while it prepared for takeoff to Hong Kong from Busan, South Korea. The fire erupted close to the end of the plane's cabin, leaving the nearly 170 individuals onboard in a state of panic. Despite being alerted to the dangerous situation, the captain did not provide an evacuation order, contributing to the chaos.
The incident followed closely on the heels of South Korea’s deadliest aviation disaster, which marked a tragic chapter in the nation’s airline history, and likely intensified the fear among passengers. Many were celebrating the Lunar New Year holiday, and the combination of excitement and anxiety heightened the emotional stakes of the situation.
Witnesses recounted harrowing moments as flames flickered from the overhead bins. Shin Min-su, a passenger, vividly described the scene, stating, “People were screaming trying to get out, but there was a line so they were stuck.” Although he attempted to help by putting out the fire, a flight attendant advised against it, leaving him feeling helpless.
Passengers reported being trapped in their seats as others attempted to reach the exits, resulting in a frightening stampede. The lack of clear communication from the crew only exacerbated the situation, as frantic calls to “open the door, open the door!” echoed through the cabin amid the smoke.
This incident highlights the critical need for timely responses and effective communication in emergencies, particularly in the wake of previous tragedies that have shaken the aviation industry in South Korea. As investigations into this fire commence, many are left to reflect on the harrowing experience they endured and the need for improved safety protocols in the airline sector.
