An Emirates flight from Thiruvananthapuram, India, crash-landed at Dubai International Airport, yet “all 300 people on board — 282 passengers and 18 crew — survived.”
The Boeing aircraft made an emergency landing around 12:45 p.m. after “the pilot reported problems with the landing gear.” Moments later, the plane skidded on the runway and caught fire, sending thick smoke across the airport.
Emergency crews responded instantly, evacuating passengers within minutes. Authorities credited “the swift actions of the crew and rescue units” for saving hundreds of lives. Ten people suffered minor injuries, while one firefighter tragically died while battling the flames — an act officials called “heroic and selfless.”
Dubai authorities praised the firefighter’s bravery, saying his sacrifice prevented the fire from spreading to other planes or airport buildings. Emirates expressed “deep gratitude to first responders and heartfelt condolences to the fallen firefighter’s family.”
Investigators believe sudden wind shear may have caused the crash, but experts said the crew’s calm and skillful response “likely saved many lives.” Aviation specialists described the event as “a miracle of training and composure,” turning what could have been a catastrophe into a powerful story of survival and courage.