Gatwick plane fire linked to co-pilot’s wrong-hand error during takeoff
On a June morning in 2024, a Gatwick fire caused significant disruption after a British Airways flight was forced to abort take-off during its runway roll. The aircraft, a Boeing 777 preparing for departure, experienced an unexpected emergency when the co-pilot mistakenly reduced engine thrust at a critical moment.
The misstep occurred as the plane was accelerating for liftoff. Instead of pulling back on the control column to initiate the climb, the co-pilot inadvertently pulled back on the thrust levers, reducing power. This triggered an emergency stop at high speed, during which the brakes overheated and a fire broke out on the right main landing gear.
Fire crews at Gatwick responded immediately, successfully extinguishing the flames. All 347 passengers and crew disembarked safely without injury.
The Gatwick fire led to a temporary closure of the airport’s main runway, affecting flight schedules throughout the day. A total of 23 flights were cancelled and 16 others were diverted as a result.
Investigators later confirmed that the co-pilot was experienced and well-rested, with no signs of fatigue or underlying issues. British Airways praised the crew for managing the situation effectively and reiterated their commitment to passenger safety.
Guidance on aviation emergency response procedures, including runway fire scenarios, is available from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, which outlines how airports coordinate with emergency services to mitigate such risks.
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