A dramatic emergency unfolded on the tarmac of São Paulo’s international airport when a significant fire erupted from ground service equipment, rapidly spreading to engulf a stationary passenger aircraft. The incident, characterized by intense flames and billowing thick black smoke, triggered an immediate high-alert response from airport emergency services.
Swift-acting ground crews and flight personnel executed a full-scale emergency evacuation protocol, successfully shepherding all 169 passengers to safety without physical injury. The rapid containment and evacuation response averted a potential catastrophe, though the event caused substantial operational disruptions at one of Brazil’s busiest aviation hubs.
Aviation authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the root cause of the equipment malfunction that sparked the blaze. Preliminary assessments suggest the fire originated from refueling apparatus or auxiliary power units stationed near the aircraft, though official findings remain pending complete forensic analysis. The affected airline has implemented contingency plans to accommodate displaced passengers while assessing damage to the aircraft, which appears to have sustained substantial exterior damage from the intense heat and flames.