A Qantas passenger plane departing from Sydney, Australia, experienced engine failure on Friday, prompting the aircraft to circle before making a safe emergency landing, the airline reported on X.
At the same time, a grass fire broke out along one side of the runway, according to a statement from Sydney Airport. It remains unclear whether the two events were connected. The fire has since been contained, although some flight delays are anticipated.
Qantas has not disclosed the number of passengers on board the twin-engine Boeing 737-800, which was en route to Brisbane when the engine reportedly failed with a loud bang. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
“We understand this would have been a distressing experience for customers, and we will be reaching out to all passengers this afternoon to offer support,” said Qantas Chief Pilot, Captain Richard Tobiano. “An investigation into the cause of the engine issue will also be conducted.”
More details will follow as the situation develops.