On January 5th, Etihad Airways flight EY461 operated by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner rejected takeoff at Melbourne Airport (MEL) after experiencing two burst main gear tires.
The aircraft involved, registered as A6-BLN, is a 7.6-year-old widebody Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Scheduled as Flight EY461, it was set to depart Melbourne for Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH).
During the takeoff procedure, two of the aircraft’s main landing gear tires burst, prompting the pilots to reject the takeoff. Video footage later shared on the social media platform X depicted the stationary Dreamliner on the runway, while a fire truck sprayed jets of water onto the aircraft’s tires as part of the emergency response.
Etihad Airways promptly addressed the situation on its social media channels, assuring that the decision to abort the takeoff was made for “operational reasons.” The airline emphasized that the safety of all on board was the primary concern.
“Our pilots made the decision to reject take-off for operational reasons. This procedure is the safest course of action to protect everyone on board in such situations. The aircraft was safely brought to a stop, with emergency services attending as a precaution.”
— Etihad Airways on X
Etihad Airways explained that foam was applied to the affected landing gear tires on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner as a standard safety measure, describing the tire deflation as a normal occurrence in such scenarios.
“As part of standard procedure, foam was applied to the landing gear tyres, and two tyres deflated—a normal occurrence in such cases.”
— Etihad Airways on X
The incident ended without injuries, and all 289 passengers were safely disembarked and transported to the terminal by bus. Etihad ensured passengers were re-accommodated on alternate flights and provided with hotel accommodations if necessary.
“Our crew ensured guests were informed and supported throughout the process. All guests have been re-accommodated on alternative flights, and those requiring hotels have been provided with appropriate arrangements.”
— Etihad Airways on X
By January 6, 2025, Melbourne Airport announced that the Dreamliner had been safely towed from the runway. Inspections were completed, and the runway was reopened for normal operations.
“All 289 passengers safely disembarked the aircraft and were bussed to the terminal. The Etihad aircraft has been safely towed from the runway, inspections have been completed and the runway reopened for operations this morning.”
— Melbourne Airport on X
- Featured image by BriYYZ
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