An Etihad Airways flight carrying nearly 300 passengers had to abort its takeoff at Melbourne Airport (MEL) on January 5, 2025, after two of the aircraft’s wheels exploded on the runway. The incident caused significant disruptions, including the closure of one runway, and highlighted the challenges of handling emergencies at major international airports.
Incident Details
The flight, EY461, was scheduled to depart from Melbourne (MEL) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner registered as A6-BLY. The takeoff roll was underway when two of the aircraft’s main landing gear tires burst, prompting the crew to immediately abort the takeoff. The aircraft came to a halt on the runway, and all passengers and crew were safely evacuated without injuries.
Melbourne Airport’s emergency response team quickly arrived on the scene, providing assistance and ensuring the safety of those on board. Passengers were transported back to the terminal and accommodated in the airport while Etihad arranged a replacement flight.
Operational Impact at Melbourne Airport
The incident resulted in the closure of one of MEL’s two main runways, leading to delays and disruptions across the airport. Aircraft scheduled to depart from or arrive at Melbourne faced delays as operations were consolidated onto a single runway. Repairs to the damaged runway were completed within a few hours, allowing normal operations to resume by late evening.
Airport authorities have praised the quick actions of the Etihad flight crew and the emergency response team in ensuring the safety of passengers and minimizing disruption.
Etihad Airways’ Response
Etihad Airways has confirmed the incident and expressed gratitude for the swift and effective handling of the situation by both the crew and Melbourne Airport staff. “Safety is our highest priority,” the airline stated. “We are working closely with local authorities and conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the issue.”
Passengers affected by the delay have been offered compensation, including rebooking options and accommodations for those requiring an extended layover.
Safety and Maintenance Considerations
While tire bursts are rare, they remain a significant safety concern due to the potential impact on an aircraft’s ability to safely take off or land. Investigators will examine the condition of the tires, maintenance logs, and other factors such as runway debris or environmental conditions that might have contributed to the incident.
Etihad Airways operates a modern fleet of aircraft, including the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, known for its advanced safety features and fuel efficiency. The airline has emphasized its commitment to ensuring the highest safety standards across its fleet.
