A terrifying mid-air emergency unfolded when a Condor Boeing 757 plane departing from Corfu, Greece, experienced engine trouble and was forced to make an emergency landing in Brindisi, Italy, just 40 minutes after takeoff on August 16, 2025. Flames were seen bursting from the aircraft’s engine, sparking panic among passengers and prompting one to send “goodbye” texts to loved ones. The plane had reached 36,000 feet en route to Düsseldorf, Germany, when it suffered a disturbance in turbine airflow, according to German broadcaster WDR. Videos posted on social media showed flames sputtering from the engine, accompanied by loud booms during descent, intensifying fears on board and among those watching from the ground.
Passengers described the incident as harrowing. One told Bild that the aircraft suddenly lost power for a few seconds and stopped climbing. Another said the experience was so traumatic, they believed it was the end, prompting them to message their families in distress. A spokesperson for Condor Airlines clarified that the engine itself did not catch fire, but rather experienced a reaction at the back of the engine that triggered abnormal readings. As a precaution, the pilots diverted to the nearest suitable airport.
The airline emphasized that passengers and crew were never in actual danger. Following the emergency landing, passengers were stranded overnight in Brindisi. Due to limited hotel availability, many travelers were not accommodated, though the airline provided blankets, vouchers, and kept some airport shops open for supplies.
Passengers who paid for alternative lodging were told they could submit claims for reimbursement. Condor apologized for the inconvenience, reiterating that passenger safety is their top priority. The aircraft involved is currently undergoing a technical inspection to determine the exact cause of the engine malfunction.