Terrifying footage captured the moment flames burst from the engine of a Condor Boeing 757, sparking panic among passengers onboard. What began as a routine flight from the Greek island of Corfu to Düsseldorf quickly turned into a dramatic emergency high above the Mediterranean Sea.
According to German broadcaster WDR, the plane had reached its cruising altitude of 36,000 feet when the engine suddenly experienced a disruption in turbine airflow. This malfunction caused the engine to sputter and ignite, sending visible flames shooting from the side of the aircraft. Passengers reported feeling the plane shudder as smoke and fire flickered outside their windows.
Despite the frightening scene, crew members maintained calm and swiftly followed safety procedures. The pilots quickly assessed the situation and decided the safest course of action was to divert to the nearest airport. Brindisi Airport in southern Italy was chosen as the emergency landing site, and ground teams were alerted to prepare for the plane’s arrival.
As the aircraft descended, flight attendants instructed passengers to stay seated and brace for landing. The calm professionalism of the crew helped keep order amid the tense atmosphere at 30,000 feet. Passengers described mixed emotions of fear and relief as they prepared for an unexpected landing far from their original destination.
Fortunately, the Boeing 757 touched down safely in Brindisi. Emergency responders rushed to the plane, but by the time it landed, the flames had already died down. All passengers and crew were able to evacuate the aircraft without injury, ending what could have been a tragic ordeal.
Investigations are now underway to determine the precise cause of the engine failure. Early reports point to a disruption in airflow to the turbine, but further technical inspections will be necessary before the plane can return to service. For those on board, the incident was a stark reminder of how quickly air travel can turn perilous—and how crucial calm, decisive action by trained crews is in ensuring everyone’s safety.
