Delhi-Zurich-bound Swiss flight horror: What travellers should do in such a situation

A Swiss International Air Lines' Airbus A330 carrying passengers flying on flight LX147 from Delhi to Zurich had to abort its take-off early on April 26, 2026, after experiencing a technical problem that led to smoke coming out around the aircraft's landing gear on the left side. According to PTI, the aircraft had 228 passengers and four infants when it aborted its take-off shortly after 1 am at the Indira Gandhi International Airport. The pilot immediately brought the plane to a halt and started an emergency procedure where passengers exited using the emergency slides, four of whom suffered minor injuries.

Full-scale emergency declared at the airport

The fire department rushed to the scene as there was an issue in connection with the plane's hydraulic systems. Several fire trucks were dispatched to assist in handling the situation which was handled successfully without having any effect on airport operations.

What passengers should do in case of an emergency

Remain calm and rely on the crew

A passenger may panic in case of an aircraft emergency, but it is vital to remain calm. Flight crews are well trained to handle emergencies, hence will give explicit instructions, even if it feels like chaos.

Leave all belongings behind

One of the most frequent errors that occur among passengers during an evacuation involves trying to collect their cabin luggage. This will not only prolong the evacuation process, but also lead to aisle blockage and result in potential damages to evacuation slides. Moreover, it can cause injury to other passengers. At critical moments like this, nothing should come first but personal safety.

Be aware of the location of the nearest exit

Passengers usually tend to move towards the nearest exit, which is the same one used for boarding. However, aircraft are equipped with various types of exit points, and the nearest one might actually be right behind the passenger. Awareness of exit points at the safety briefing stage could be helpful during emergencies.

Prepare mentally and physically for an evacuation

The process of evacuation will start, and the passenger needs to act fast and smartly.

Move to a safe distance immediately

Do not remain near the runway when leaving the plane nor try to capture any images or videos as emergency situations in aircraft develop rapidly and it’s important that the specialists have easy access.

Consider others but avoid delays

Assisting passengers, including children, senior citizens, or individuals with limited mobility, is always good but helping shouldn’t cause any delays in the process of evacuation. Try to be fast and informed about your surroundings.

Be aware before something happens

Although briefing sessions may sound repetitive, you should know at least some basic things such as exit points, how to use life vests and what to do in case of an emergency. Preparedness plays a vital role in such situations.

Comply with all instructions after evacuation

When getting off the aircraft, you should obey the airport’s personnel or emergency workers. They will guide you to safe spots and help organize further actions.