Air Canada Flight AC872’s Engine Catches Fire at Toronto Pearson Airport

An alarming incident unfolded at Toronto Pearson Airport on the evening of June 5, as Air Canada Flight AC872, en route to Paris, experienced an engine fire shortly before takeoff. The Boeing aircraft, carrying 400 passengers and crew, was forced to make an emergency landing after just thirty minutes into the flight.

Eyewitnesses captured the terrifying moment when a flash from the right engine was followed by a small explosion, igniting the tail of the plane. Despite the alarming visuals, no injuries were reported among passengers or crew. The skilled aircrew successfully landed the aircraft, preventing a potentially catastrophic outcome.

The cause of the fire was later identified as an engine compressor issue, according to an Air Canada representative. The airline assured that affected passengers would be accommodated on another flight departing later that evening.

This incident raises concerns about aircraft maintenance and inspection protocols, particularly as it comes less than two weeks after a similar engine issue affected another flight departing from the same airport. The Boeing 777-300ER aircraft involved in the incident has been a staple of Air Canada’s fleet since 2008, prompting a need for further evaluation by maintenance professionals.

Despite these challenges, the Boeing 777-300ER has been known for its robust design and has served Air Canada reliably over the years. However, these recent events underscore the importance of stringent safety measures to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew.

Superb work by the pilots and their air traffic controllers, dealing with a backfiring engine on takeoff. Heavy plane full of fuel, low cloud thunderstorms, repeated compressor stalls. Calm, competent, professional – well done!
Details: https://t.co/VaJeEdpzcn @AirCanada pic.twitter.com/7aOHyFsR29

— Chris Hadfield (@Cmdr_Hadfield) June 7, 2024