Senegal Airport Incident: Transair Jet Veers Off Runway, Injuring Passengers
A Transair-owned Boeing 737-300, chartered by Air Senegal, skidded off the runway at Senegal’s Blaise Diagne Airport on Thursday, leaving at least 10 people injured. The incident occurred around 1 am GMT as the aircraft prepared for a flight to Mali, bringing the airport to a temporary halt.
Investigation Underway
The airport authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. Social media footage captured passengers fleeing the aircraft, with its left wing appearing to be ablaze. Although Reuters could not independently verify the authenticity of the videos, airport reporters witnessed a plane with the Transair logo cordoned off in the grassy area adjacent to the runway.
Passenger Injuries
The airport reported 78 passengers aboard, with 11 sustaining injuries, including four in a critical condition. The transport ministry, however, reported 79 passengers and 10 injuries, with one being the plane’s pilot. All passengers have been evacuated, and the airport has resumed normal operations as of 11 am GMT.
**Case Study: Emergency Response**
The prompt response from airport authorities, passengers, and emergency services played a crucial role in mitigating the impact of the incident. Here are key aspects of the response:
- Evacuation Procedures: Passengers were quickly evacuated via emergency slides, minimizing potential harm.
- Emergency Alert and Response: Authorities and emergency services were immediately alerted, allowing for swift deployment.
- Medical Assistance: Injured passengers received immediate medical attention at the airport and were transported to nearby hospitals.
The expedited response and collaboration ensured the safety of the passengers, enabling a smoother aftermath management process.
Transair’s Statement
Transair has expressed regret over the incident and has pledged to cooperate fully with the investigation. A spokesperson emphasized the company’s commitment to safety and the well-being of its passengers. Air Senegal has also pledged its support in the ongoing investigation and has expressed concern for the injured passengers.
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The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of aviation safety and the need for continued vigilance in adhering to safety protocols. LA News Center will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses.
