SWISS A330 Rejected Takeoff in Boston
Earlier this week, a SWISS Airbus A330-300 departing from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) in Massachusetts aborted its takeoff due to engine issues. Video footage captured smoke and flames erupting from the aircraft’s engine.
Flight and Incident Details
- Carrier: SWISS International Air Lines
- Flight number: LX55
- Route: Boston (BOS) to Zürich (ZRH)
- Flight duration: Approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes
- Scheduled departure: 17:05
- Aircraft involved: Airbus A330-300, registration HB-JHM
- Date of incident: September 16
- Passengers on board: 223
- Crew members: 13
During the takeoff attempt at approximately 18:25, the right-hand Rolls-Royce Trent 700 turbofan emitted smoke and flames. A SWISS spokesperson noted that an investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Immediate Actions and FAA Involvement
The flight crew immediately aborted the takeoff, allowing passengers to disembark safely after returning to the gate. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced it will investigate the incident. It temporarily paused arriving flights at Boston Logan Airport.
On-ground Response and Passenger Accommodations
Emergency services attended the aircraft upon stopping on runway 22R, which is 2,397 meters (7,864 feet) long. The aircraft returned to the apron independently around 15 minutes later. Although the affected A330, HB-JHM, remains grounded, a replacement aircraft was readily available.
The substitute Airbus A330-300, registered as HB-JHB, was already in Boston and operated the flight, flying back to Zürich more than five hours late, arriving at 11:34 on September 17.
SWISS Operational Decisions
Interestingly, the replacement aircraft had been in Boston since September 14 and did not operate Flight LX55 on September 15 either, which Flightradar24 indicates was canceled. Its presence proved fortuitous when HB-JHM encountered the engine issue.
Observers noted the crew reported a loud noise during the incident, with air traffic control advising them of visible smoke and flames. No injuries were reported, highlighting the swift and effective response.
