Swiss jet aborts Boston takeoff after flame and smoke spew from engine
A Swiss heavy jet aborts takeoff at Boston Logan following a dramatic engine failure and smoke.
Summary
Swiss flight 2 Victor Heavy experienced a critical engine failure during its takeoff roll on Runway 22 Right at Boston Logan. The crew successfully executed a rejected takeoff, stopped on the runway, and requested emergency services to inspect the damaged engine. After shutting down both engines, the aircraft remained on the runway while the fire brigade conducted an external assessment.
Analysis
The incident began as Swiss 2 Victor Heavy, a long-haul aircraft (typically a Boeing 777-300ER on this route), was cleared for takeoff from Boston Logan International Airport. As the crew advanced the throttles, a mechanical failure occurred in the number two engine. Air Traffic Control immediately observed black smoke emanating from the power plant and queried the pilots regarding their status.
The flight crew demonstrated exceptional professionalism by performing a High-Speed Rejected Takeoff (RTO). In aviation, an RTO is one of the most demanding maneuvers for a pilot, especially in a "Heavy" aircraft loaded with fuel for a transatlantic crossing. The kinetic energy converted to heat in the brakes during such a stop is immense, often requiring fire crews to monitor brake temperatures even if there is no engine fire.
Key moments in the recording include the calm transition from the takeoff clearance to the emergency declaration. The pilot’s initial "Negative" to assistance followed by a rapid correction once the engine failure was confirmed ("Okay, we have an engine 2 failure") highlights the "Aviate, Navigate, Communicate" hierarchy. The crew prioritized securing the aircraft and assessing instruments before requesting the "fire brigade" for an external inspection.
The technical coordination showcased the integration of airport services. ATC managed the surrounding traffic, including JetBlue flights, while clearing a path for emergency vehicles. The Swiss crew's decision to shut down both engines on the runway is a standard safety precaution to allow firefighters to approach the aircraft safely without the risk of jet blast or ingestion. This incident serves as a textbook example of how modern cockpit crews and controllers manage high-energy emergencies to prevent them from escalating into disasters.