Critical Takeoff Error Leads to Emergency
On June 28, 2024, British Airways Boeing 777 (Flight BA2279) bound for Vancouver experienced a brake fire after take-off from London Gatwick Airport UK after a deadly error on the co-pilot’s part, reported The Independent. The co-pilot rather than putting control back to lift the nose of the aircraft reduced engine power at the speed of approximately 192 mph just seconds from liftoff.
High-Speed Stop Triggers Runway Fire
This sudden refused takeoff caused severe brake overheating. Moreover, producing a fire on the right main landing gear of the aircraft. This emergency required an emergency stop on the runway. The Standard reports that the accident temporarily closed Gatwick airport England main runway with resultant widespread disruption. Due to this, 23 departure flights were cancelled and 16 arrival flights diverted.
Passengers and Crew Escape Unharmed
Despite the severity of the accident, all 347 passengers and crew members on board were safely evacuated without suffering any injuries. Firefighters also responded quickly and extinguished the fire.
An Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) investigation attributed the crash to an “action slip,” a type of human mistake in which an well-rehearsed action is performed incorrectly. The more than 6,000 hours experienced co-pilot said he was well-rested and could not explain the mistake. The Independent says the captain quickly took back command of the aircraft and guided it safely to the ground and spoke to air traffic control during the emergency.
Swift Response from British Airways and Gatwick Airport
British Airways confirmed that the safety of its passengers and crew remains its highest priority. The airline issued a formal apology for the inconvenience caused by the incident acknowledging the disruption to travel plans and expressing gratitude for passengers’ patience and cooperation during the emergency. In coordination with London Gatwick Airport UK authorities, British Airways implemented rapid response protocols to ensure that the situation was managed efficiently and safely. Ground crews, emergency services and airline staff worked in close collaboration to minimize delays and restore regular flight operations. Thanks to these swift efforts, the airport was returned to full operational status shortly after the affected runway was cleared and inspected. As reported by The Standard, normal services resumed within hours allowing passengers to continue their journeys with minimal further disruption.
The incident in the Gatwick Airport England highlights the complete necessity of cockpit communication and attentiveness even for experienced flight crews.
