In a harrowing incident at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, a Japan Airlines plane erupted in flames following a collision with a coastguard aircraft on the runway. While all 379 passengers and crew on the airliner were successfully evacuated, the coastguard plane’s crew suffered a devastating loss, with five out of six members losing their lives. The unfolding tragedy has prompted investigations into the cause of the collision, disrupting travel plans for thousands.
Evacuation and Blaze:
Upon landing from Sapporo, the Japan Airlines Flight 516 skidded on the blazing runway, engulfing the aircraft in flames. Commendably, the flight crew swiftly evacuated all passengers via an evacuation slide, and footage revealed them running to safety across the tarmac. Firefighters battled for hours to extinguish the blaze, while the closure of all four runways at Haneda Airport caused widespread travel disruptions.
Eyewitness Accounts:
Passengers onboard recounted a terrifying experience, with one describing a sudden jerk and the cabin filling with gas and smoke. Video footage captured the moment the airliner burst into flames, creating a chaotic scene. Despite the terrifying ordeal, air safety experts praised the crew for their successful evacuation efforts.
Investigation Underway:
The cause of the collision remains unclear, prompting investigations by authorities. Exchanges between the flight crew and controllers before landing are under scrutiny. Both Japan Airlines and the coastguard are cooperating in the investigation, aiming to determine how and when the two aircraft collided.
Japan Airlines Statement:
Japan Airlines released a statement acknowledging the collision, expressing condolences for the deceased coastguard members, and reassuring the public about the safe evacuation of passengers and crew. The coastguard aircraft, a De Havilland Dash 8 turboprop, was en route to aid earthquake relief efforts.
Casualties and Injuries:
Tragically, all five coastguard crew members lost their lives, and the pilot sustained severe injuries. At least 14 passengers and crew from the Japan Airlines flight suffered minor injuries. Fumio Kishida, expressing regret, emphasized the importance of ensuring the accident doesn’t hinder earthquake relief efforts.
Airport Disruptions:
Haneda Airport, a major international hub, faced significant disruptions, with flights grounded and diversions to other airports. Emergency services worked diligently to manage the aftermath, and all but one runway, where the collision occurred, reopened later in the evening.
A350 Involvement and Airbus Response:
This incident marks the first major accident involving an A350, a technologically advanced aircraft. Airbus is dispatching a team of specialists to Japan to assist in the investigation, signaling the gravity of the situation.
Praise for Crew’s Efforts:
Amidst the tragedy, there is praise for the Japan Airlines crew and pilots. Their focus on safety and the successful evacuation under challenging circumstances has garnered commendation from experts, highlighting their dedication and professionalism in the face of adversity.