Ryanair Jet Engulfed in Flames, Cracks in Two Upon Landing

May 3, 2025 —

A Ryanair flight carrying over 180 passengers was engulfed in flames and split into two upon landing at Dublin Airport this morning, sparking scenes of chaos and panic as emergency services rushed to the scene. The aircraft, arriving from Barcelona, experienced what officials have called a “critical in-flight emergency” just moments before touching down.

Panic at Dublin Airport

According to eyewitness reports and initial flight data, the Boeing 737-800 encountered technical issues shortly before descent. Passengers aboard Flight FR4679 reported a loud bang mid-air, followed by visible smoke and an announcement from the flight crew urging passengers to prepare for an emergency landing.

“It was terrifying,” said Emily Brennan, a 32-year-old teacher from Galway who was returning from vacation. “The cabin filled with smoke, and we could smell something burning. People were screaming and crying. The flight attendants did their best to keep everyone calm, but we all knew something was very wrong.”

Upon touchdown at approximately 10:42 AM local time, flames erupted from the left engine. As the pilots attempted to bring the plane to a halt, the aircraft veered slightly off the runway. Seconds later, the fuselage cracked near the wing area, breaking the plane into two sections. Emergency evacuation slides were deployed immediately.

Emergency Response and Rescue

Dublin Airport’s emergency response unit was activated within moments. Firefighters battled the blaze and ensured the evacuation of all passengers and crew. Authorities confirmed that all 183 individuals on board were successfully evacuated, though at least 34 people were hospitalized with injuries ranging from minor burns to fractures and shock.

Airport fire chief Patrick Doyle addressed the media at a press briefing. “Our teams responded within 90 seconds of receiving the alert. We managed to control the fire and assist with the evacuation. The split in the fuselage was serious, but thankfully, no lives were lost. We commend the Ryanair crew for their swift action and the passengers for following evacuation procedures.”

Ambulances lined the runway as injured passengers were treated and transported to nearby hospitals. At least three people are said to be in critical condition, including a flight attendant who was assisting passengers during the evacuation when debris from the wing area struck her.

Investigation Underway

The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) and Ryanair have both launched full investigations into the cause of the incident. Preliminary reports suggest that a mechanical failure may have triggered the fire, though this has yet to be confirmed.

IAA spokesperson Lisa O’Connell stated, “We are working with Ryanair, the aircraft manufacturer Boeing, and European aviation safety agencies to determine the exact cause of the emergency. The black boxes have been recovered and will be analyzed.”

Ryanair issued an official statement expressing deep concern over the incident. “We are cooperating fully with all investigative authorities. Our thoughts are with those injured, and we are providing support to all affected passengers and crew. Safety remains our top priority.”

Flight data reveals that the aircraft involved was 12 years old and had passed all standard maintenance checks. However, questions are now being raised about Ryanair’s aging fleet and whether more stringent maintenance protocols are required.

Airport Operations Disrupted

Dublin Airport was temporarily closed following the incident, leading to widespread delays and cancellations. Hundreds of passengers were stranded in terminals, and incoming flights were diverted to nearby Shannon and Belfast airports.

The airport resumed partial operations by 3 PM local time, but officials warned that disruptions could continue for 24-48 hours. “We ask for the public’s patience,” said Dublin Airport Authority CEO Declan Walsh. “Our focus is on ensuring the safety of everyone and clearing the runway for regular traffic.”

Eyewitness Accounts

Several passengers shared harrowing footage and photos from the scene, many of which quickly went viral on social media. Videos show passengers jumping from emergency slides and running across the tarmac as fire trucks doused the burning engine.

“It was like something out of a disaster movie,” said Michael Sanchez, a Spanish national who was visiting Ireland for the first time. “The plane hit the ground hard, and I thought we weren’t going to make it. I’m thankful to be alive.”

Aviation analysts have noted that the pilots’ decision to continue the descent rather than attempt a mid-air return or emergency diversion may have saved lives. “Landing a plane in distress is never easy, but doing so without any fatalities speaks volumes about the skill of the crew,” said aviation expert Tom Delaney.

Broader Implications

The Ryanair incident has sent shockwaves through the aviation industry. This is the first major incident involving the airline in nearly a decade, and it’s likely to prompt a reevaluation of safety practices, aircraft age, and emergency protocols.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has indicated that it may issue temporary safety directives while further investigations are underway. Ryanair shares dropped 4% on the Irish stock exchange within hours of the news breaking.

The airline, known for its low-cost operations and expansive network, may face lawsuits from injured passengers, regulatory scrutiny, and public backlash.

Support for Victims and Families

Ryanair has set up an emergency hotline for families and loved ones seeking information. Crisis counselors have been made available at Dublin Airport and local hospitals.

“We are doing everything we can to support those affected,” said Ryanair CEO Eddie Wilson. “This is a dark day for our company, and we are grateful that no lives were lost.”

What Comes Next?

While the immediate crisis has been contained, many questions remain. What caused the fire? Was the aircraft truly fit to fly? Could the situation have been avoided?

Until the investigation is complete, the aviation community will be watching closely. For the 183 people aboard Flight FR4679, May 3, 2025, will be a day they never forget—a day of terror, survival, and, ultimately, miraculous escape from a fiery catastrophe.