Etihad Airways flight EY461 loses two tyres after dramatic take-off failure

On January 5, 2025, an incident occurred at Melbourne Airport in Australia when an Etihad Airways flight, EY461, was scheduled to transport passengers from Melbourne to Abu Dhabi. As the Boeing 787 prepared for take-off at approximately 6:15 PM local time, the flight crew initiated an emergency halt. This decision was made due to high exhaust gas temperatures detected in one of the engines, which posed potential risks for the aircraft. It is noted that such operational precautions are taken to ensure passenger safety and prevent any in-flight emergencies as the flight reaches critical take-off speeds. During the aborted take-off, two tyres on the aircraft suffered deflation, which is a standard protocol in similar situations as part of safety measures. Despite various accounts suggesting these tyres burst, the airline clarified that the deflations were a precautionary result of the emergency stop rather than being the initial cause. Emergency services were dispatched to the scene to provide support and safety oversight, applying foam to the landing gear as a preventive tactic. Passengers aboard the flight expressed anxiety as they observed the fire crews attending to the aircraft. Jonathan Dover, a passenger, noted the tension but commended the pilot's effective communication during the crisis, which helped alleviate concerns among those on board. Following the incident, all 289 passengers were safely evacuated and transferred via bus back to the terminal, ensuring comfort and care were prioritized during the process. The aircraft underwent inspections and repairs in light of the damage sustained to its tyres. By the next morning, Melbourne Airport officials announced that the plane had been safely towed from the runway, and the runway was reopened for regular operations. This incident highlights the airline's commitment to passenger safety and operational protocols during critical situations, while also emphasizing the importance of clear communication by the crew in managing passenger experiences in emergencies.