Boeing 787 Engine Catches Fire Mid-Air, Safely Returns to Rome

A Hainan Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner was forced to return to Rome’s Fiumici Airport shortly after takeoff when aircraft’s right engine caught fire mid-air. Shenzhen-bound flight, carrying 249 passengers and 16 crew members, landed safely, with injuries reported.

incident occurred shortly after takeoff when plane encountered a bird strike that caused right engine to ignite, according to Hainan Airlines. “On vember 10th, 2024, Hainan Airlines flight HU438 (Rome-Shenzhen) encountered a bird strike on right engine during takeoff. In order to ensure safety, crew promptly returned to airport according to procedures," airline stated in a post on X.

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Following engine fire, flight crew decided to turn back to Rome. As part of emergency procedures, aircraft dumped fuel over sea to reduce landing weight before safely returning to Fiumici Airport at 11:06 am local time (18:06 Beijing time). Italian Coast Guard officials and airport authorities confirmed that all passengers were unharmed and disembarked in an orderly manner after landing.

airline has since apologized for disruption and assured that y will provide follow-up assistance for passengers. “We sincerely apologize for any inconveniences caused by this and we really appreciate all passengers for ir understanding and support,” airline’s statement re.

An airport official reported that incident caused delays to or flights departing from Fiumici. Bird strikes, while t uncommon, can pose serious risks to aircraft, particularly during takeoff and landing.