Smoke coming from an Emirates 777 causes panic with passengers

EMIRATES B777-31H A6-ECV (MSN 35594)

An Emirates flight bound for Dubai with 280 passengers onboard caused a commotion at Chennai International Airport (MAA/VOMM) on Tuesday night when smoke was detected coming from the aircraft's wing, confirmed by airport officials. The event took place just before the flight's scheduled departure, resulting in a slight delay and increased security measures.

Flight EK547, scheduled to leave for Dubai (DXB/OMDB) at 10 pm, had earlier arrived from Dubai at 8:30 pm. Around 9:15 pm, while boarding was underway, the crew noticed smoke, leading to an immediate aircraft evacuation and notification to airport authorities. Firefighting units were quickly dispatched, and specialists examined the aircraft. The smoke cleared within 10 minutes, airport authorities reported.

The specific cause of the smoke was not immediately revealed, but the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security mandated a detailed inspection of the Boeing 777 aircraft. A thorough investigation, ensuring passenger safety, led to the flight's delayed departure.

After a comprehensive review and engineer approval, the flight departed at 12.30 am. 

Emirates issued a statement regarding the incident: 

"Due to a technical issue, Emirates flight EK547 from Chennai to Dubai on September 24, 2024, was postponed. After an engineering check, the plane was authorized to continue to Dubai. Emirates regrets any inconvenience caused. The safety of our passengers and crew remains a top priority."

The holdup raised concerns among travelers, but airport officials assured that all safety procedures were observed, and the situation was managed without endangering passengers or crew. 

There is speculation that mistakenly overfilling the aircraft's fuel caused the smoke.

Aircraft Information:

Airline: Emirates

Code: EK/UAE

Aircraft: Boeing 777-31H

Registration: A6-ECZ

Serial Number: 38983

Engines: 2 x GE GE90-115B

First Flew: 1st February 2010

Age: 14.7 Years Old