Etihad Airways Flight EY461, scheduled from Melbourne to Abu Dhabi, aborted its takeoff at Melbourne Airport due to a technical issue. The incident occurred as the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner accelerated on the runway before coming to a sudden halt. Emergency services were promptly deployed, and passengers were safely evacuated and transported back to the terminal. The runway remained closed until inspections were completed the following morning. This event adds to the scrutiny surrounding Boeing’s recent technical and safety challenges.
What prompted the abrupt stop?
Etihad Airways stated the decision to halt the takeoff was precautionary after a technical issue was detected.
“The flight crew decided to halt the take-off for technical reasons, the aircraft was safely brought to a stop on the runway and emergency services attended as a precaution,”
the airline confirmed. Reports from a passenger indicated that two tires burst and the landing gear caught fire, prompting the use of firefighting foam by emergency teams.
How were passengers and operations impacted?
All 289 passengers on board disembarked safely and were transported to the terminal by bus. The aircraft was subsequently towed off the runway. Officials confirmed the runway closure delayed operations, but it reopened the next morning after thorough inspections. Etihad Airways worked to rebook passengers onto alternative flights, minimizing disruptions for travelers.
Incidents involving Boeing aircraft have drawn significant attention over the years. In a separate case earlier in 2024, a Boeing 737 Max operated by Alaska Airlines lost a door mid-flight due to missing bolts, causing cabin depressurization. Additionally, Boeing has been investigating improper installation of fasteners on undelivered 787 Dreamliners. Concerns about safety and quality control have been increasingly raised following these events, placing heightened focus on the manufacturer’s protocols.
Flight tracking data revealed the Dreamliner reached approximately 170 miles per hour before halting on the runway. Boeing, the aircraft’s manufacturer, directed inquiries about the Melbourne incident to Etihad Airways. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has previously addressed concerns about structural fasteners in Boeing models, reflecting ongoing quality assurance challenges for the company.
This event underscores the importance of robust safety measures in aviation. While the swift response of the crew and emergency teams ensured a safe outcome, it highlights the necessity for airlines and manufacturers to address underlying technical issues. Passengers rely on the seamless operation of flights, and incidents like this reinforce the responsibility of stakeholders in maintaining public trust.
