Emergency services responded as a precaution after the aircraft returned to the gate in Chennai.
Etihad Airways issued a clarification after media reports claimed there was a fire on one of its aircraft preparing to depart from Chennai to Zayed International Airport.
The reports said emergency services responded immediately and all passengers were safely disembarked, with no injuries reported.
However, officials from Etihad Airways told that the aircraft returned to the gate before departure due to a technical issue and confirmed there was no fire onboard.
Etihad Airways said in a statement: “Contrary to some media reports, there was no fire onboard the aircraft. The aircraft returned to stand due to a technical issue.”
What caused the delay
Etihad Airways said flight EY343 from Chennai to Zayed International Airport was delayed after the aircraft returned to the gate due to a technical issue, followed by passenger disembarkation.
The airline added that emergency services were activated as a precaution under Chennai International Airport safety protocols.
The flight was expected to depart around three hours behind schedule. The carrier apologised for the inconvenience and said its teams were assisting affected passengers with their onward travel arrangements.
Passengers on EY343 were also advised to update their contact details via the airline’s website to receive SMS or email flight notifications.
Etihad Airways added: “The safety and comfort of our guests and crew remains Etihad’s highest priority.”
