Key points:
- Saudi Airlines flight SV-792 caught fire during landing at Peshawar Airport.
- Emergency protocols led to the safe evacuation of 276 passengers and 21 crew members.
- Firefighters quickly extinguished the flames, preventing a major disaster.
A Saudi Air flight, SV-792 from Riyadh, caught fire during landing at Peshawar’s Bacha Khan International Airport on Thursday. The fire, which broke out in the landing gear, prompted immediate emergency protocols, according to aviation sources. The air traffic controller quickly alerted authorities, leading to the rapid evacuation of 276 passengers and a 21-member crew via emergency slides.
Firefighting crews responded promptly and successfully extinguished the flames, preventing a potential disaster. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, though a few passengers sustained minor injuries and received first aid.
The exact cause of the fire is under investigation by airport authorities and aviation experts. Initial reports suggest that the fire ignited as the plane touched down at the airport.
The incident caused temporary disruptions, leading to the closure of Peshawar Airport for 24 hours to facilitate the removal of the aircraft from the taxiway. All flights to Peshawar are being diverted to alternative airports. The runway closure may be extended if necessary.