Breaking News: Boeing 757 Makes Emergency Landing After Engine Malfunction Mid-Flight — Passengers Recall “Terrifying” Moments
A Condor Boeing 757 aircraft made an emergency landing in Brindisi, Italy, after one of its engines began emitting flames shortly after takeoff from Corfu, Greece, on August 16, 2025. The aircraft was headed to Düsseldorf, Germany, when pilots detected an engine issue about 40 minutes into the flight, forcing an urgent diversion.
Terrifying Mid-Air Moments
According to passengers, panic broke out as flames and loud booms were seen from the engine during descent. Some travelers believed the aircraft was about to crash, with one passenger telling German media outlet Bild that they even sent “goodbye texts” to their families.
Social media footage captured by passengers showed the right engine emitting flashes of fire, while the plane quickly began descending toward Brindisi Airport. Despite the chaos, pilots managed a safe landing, and emergency services were ready on the runway.
Condor’s Official Statement
In a statement, Condor Airlines confirmed the incident but clarified that the engine did not catch fire. Instead, the aircraft experienced a turbine airflow disturbance that created an unusual reaction at the rear of the engine. The airline emphasized that passengers and crew were not in immediate danger at any point.
As a precautionary measure, the pilots followed standard safety protocol and diverted to the nearest suitable airport. “Safety is our highest priority,” Condor said, adding that the aircraft is now undergoing a full technical inspection to determine the cause of the malfunction.
Passengers Stranded Overnight
Following the emergency landing, passengers spent the night in Brindisi. Due to limited hotel availability, some travelers slept in the terminal, while others were offered blankets, food vouchers, and open access to airport facilities. Condor stated that passengers who arranged their own accommodation could submit receipts for reimbursement.
Aviation Experts Weigh In
Aviation experts note that such incidents, while alarming, are rare and usually well managed by trained pilots. Engine malfunctions can occur due to mechanical stress, bird strikes, or minor turbine issues, and modern aircraft are designed to handle single-engine operations safely.
Safety Reminder for Travelers
The event serves as an important reminder for travelers to remain calm and follow crew instructions during emergencies. Experts also encourage passengers to consider comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected disruptions or accommodation delays.
Condor has since apologized for the inconvenience and continues to investigate the mechanical issue with Boeing technicians and Italian aviation authorities.
