A FedEx aircraft's engine burst into flames shortly after taking off from Newark Airport on Saturday morning, necessitating an emergency landing in New Jersey. A video circulating on social media captures the Boeing 767-3S2F racing back towards the runway with its right engine ablaze.
Another video shared by Fox News depicts the fire reaching substantial heights as two airport fire trucks rush to the aircraft post-landing. FedEx issued a statement to the news outlet, explaining that Flight 3609 was en route to Indianapolis when it encountered a bird strike.
"Our B767 crew declared an emergency and returned safely to Newark after addressing the resulting engine damage, including a fire. The training, experience, and professionalism exhibited by our FedEx pilots were exemplary. We are grateful for the swift actions of our crew and the first responders," the statement read, as reported by Fox.
The aircraft was compelled to land just nine minutes after its departure, according to flight data. Although the extent of the fire damage remains unknown, hours later the plane was cleared for its journey to Indiana, as per Flight Aware.
This incident adds to a series of unfortunate air travel events recently involving U.S. flights. Last week, a Southwest Airlines plane narrowly avoided a severe accident at Chicago's Midway International Airport.
Flight 2504, a Boeing 737-8H4 from Omaha, Nebraska, had to abruptly abort its landing when a private jet from Flexjet, a Bombardier Challenger 3500, dangerously encroached on its flight path. The pilot, upon noticing, executed a maneuver to quickly ascend and avert a collision.
The previous week, a Delta Air Lines aircraft departing from Minneapolis, U.S., bound for Toronto, Canada, crashed while landing at Pearson International Airport and overturned from the impact. Fifteen people were injured, including a child, though none of the injuries were deemed life-threatening.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recent Air Travel Incidents
What caused the FedEx plane's engine to catch fire?
The engine fire was caused by a bird strike shortly after takeoff from Newark Airport.
How did the FedEx crew handle the emergency?
The crew declared an emergency and safely returned the aircraft to Newark Airport, effectively managing the engine damage and fire.
What happened to the Southwest Airlines flight at Midway Airport?
The Southwest Airlines flight had to abort its landing when a private jet entered its path, forcing the pilot to quickly ascend to avoid a collision.
Were there any injuries in the Delta Air Lines incident?
Yes, fifteen people were injured in the Delta Air Lines incident, but none of the injuries were life-threatening.