The pilot of a fast-moving Etihad Airways passenger jet slammed on the emergency brakes moments before take-off in Australia due to technical problems, news reports said on Monday.
No one was harmed in Sunday evening’s incident at Melbourne Airport.
Despite reportedly reaching a speed of at least 200 kilometres per hour, the pilot successfully halted the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, local media reported, citing the Abu Dhabi-based airline.
Two tyres burst during the manoeuvre, causing smoke to come out from under the aircraft and triggering nervousness among the 289 passengers, reports said.
It was “the most terrifying moment in my life,” Australia’s 9News channel quoted one man as saying. “We were sure we were about to die.”
The plane had been due to fly from Melbourne to the United Arab Emirates capital Abu Dhabi.
Etihad apologized to those on board, and emphasized that the safety of the passengers and crew always took top priority. Passengers praised the calm and level-headed behaviour of the airline staff.
Photos and videos circulated on the internet showed fire engines rushing to the aircraft.
As it was initially difficult to remove it due to the damage, the airport had to manage with just one runway until the morning, which resulted in flight delays.
