Edited by Deepali Verma
A dramatic incident at Tokyo’s Haneda airport took place where a Japan Airlines Airbus A-350, Flight 516, burst into flames on the runway after a collision with a smaller Japan Coast Guard aircraft. The Airbus A-350, had reportedly departed from Shin Chitose airport. The collision caused a massive fire that prompted a swift response from rescue crews to try and control the blaze.
All of the 379 passengers and crew on board with the Japan Airlines plane managed to escape unharmed. The evacuation too was a successful execution, ensuring the safety of 367 passengers, eight toddlers, and 12 crew members, as per the spokesperson from the airline.
Post the collision, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has instructed the relevant agencies to coordinate and assess the damage swiftly. The severity of the incident is concerning which has led to a comprehensive investigation by the authorities.
The Japan Coast Guard, responsible for maritime safety and security, is currently involved in the process of investigating the possibility that one of its aircraft collided with the passenger jet. Initially, five out of the six crew members from the coast guard aircraft were unaccounted for, but they were later found, with the pilot successfully evacuated.
As a precautionary measure, Haneda airport has temporarily closed all runways. This has resulted in disrupted flight operations. This closing of runaway aims to facilitate the investigation and assess the extent of damage caused by the collision and subsequent fire.
NHK footage has captured the terrifying moment when the Japan Airlines plane erupted in flames on the runway when it was reportedly hit by the Japan Coast Guard aircraft after landing. The collision resulted in large eruptions of fire and smoke, ultimately engulfing the entire plane.
While the incident has undoubtedly caused chaos and disruptions at Haneda airport, the successful evacuation of all passengers and crew members is a testament to the efficiency of emergency response procedures. Authorities continue to work diligently to determine the exact circumstances of the collision and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.
