1 Sparks and Flames Seen, Panic Ensues
The Viva Aerobus flight, an Airbus A320-200, had just departed from Guadalajara around 10 p.m. local time. About 10 minutes after takeoff, passengers saw sparks and flames coming from the plane’s right engine. Some reported hearing an explosion. That sent some of those aboard into a panic. Some people began to cry, scream and pray, KABC reported. Keep reading to see the video.ae0fcc31ae342fd3a1346ebb1f342fcb
2 Pilots Shut Down Engine, Turned Around
News reports indicate that the pilots stopped climbing at 13,000 feet and executed an emergency shutdown of the affected engine. They turned the plane around and landed safely back in Guadalajara, about 45 minutes after their initial departure. No injuries were reported.
3 What Caused the Fire?
The cause of the engine fire is unclear; there are a number of possible explanations. “Most of these types of failures can be attributed to mechanical issues in the engine, such as turbine or oil leaks and related mechanical breakdowns, as well as external conditions such as contamination, bird strikes, or unusual weather conditions (such as heavy precipitation),” said an expert with Plane & Pilot magazine. None of those have yet been ruled in or out; the cause is being investigated.
4 “Friction of Metals” Blamed By Airline
In a statement, Viva Aerobus said the engine sparks were caused by a “friction of metals.” According to the airline, passengers on the flight were put up in a hotel overnight and were able to complete their trip the next morning. “We deeply regret the inconveniences that this circumstance may have caused, which will be analyzed and evaluated by the airline and the competent authorities,” the airline said in its press release. “Viva Aerobus reaffirms its commitment to safety on each of its flights, the company’s number one priority.”
5 Second Recent Emergency for Carrier
This was the second emergency landing involving a Viva Aerobus plane in recent months, the Daily Mail reported. On May 22, Flight 1281 from Villahermosa to Mexico City had to turn back when a bird struck an engine. That flight also landed without injuries.
