Airlines

Transair Boeing 737 catches fire, Runway Skid Leaves 10 people Injured

In a harrowing incident at an airport in Dakar, Senegal, Boeing 737 operated by Air Senegal’s Transair skidded off the runway just before takeoff, leaving 10 individuals injured.

The event unfolded late Wednesday, with 85 passengers onboard, bound for Mali. Passengers onboard the flight captured the terrifying moments and shared videos on social media, revealing flames engulfing one side of the plane and the distressing sounds of evacuation.

Transair Senegal Boeing 737-300 (6V-AJE, built 1994) was seriously damaged when it overran the landing runway at Dakar-Intl Airport(GOBD), Senegal. The left wing and engine caught fire but all 73 passengers were able to evacuate alive. There was unspecified number of injuries.… pic.twitter.com/SysgTSL3b8
— JACDEC (@JacdecNew) May 9, 2024

Conflicting reports emerged regarding the exact count of passengers and injuries, with authorities indicating 78 passengers onboard and 11 wounded, while the transport ministry reported 79 passengers and 10 injuries, including one of the pilots.

Despite the confusion, swift action from the crew allowed for the deployment of side exit ramps, facilitating the evacuation of passengers as the aircraft began to burn. Authorities swiftly responded, transporting the injured to nearby hospitals for treatment while providing shelter to others at a nearby hotel.

Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer, issued a statement expressing readiness to support investigations into the incident. The company referenced Transair for further inquiries, emphasizing their commitment to providing assistance to their customers. Notably, the ill-fated plane had previously experienced a tail issue during takeoff, returning to service a month later.

This incident adds to a string of recent challenges faced by Boeing, including heightened scrutiny following various incidents. In January, an Alaska Airlines flight encountered a mid-flight emergency when a door plug blew out, further amplifying concerns about aircraft safety and maintenance.

As investigations unfold, questions regarding aircraft maintenance, safety protocols, and regulatory oversight are likely to come under increased scrutiny, highlighting the critical importance of ensuring passenger safety in air travel.

Airlines

British Airways Unveils Its Brand-New First Class Cabin for the Airbus A380

British Airways has introduced its brand-new First Class seat, blending sleek design with expert British craftsmanship. Reflecting modern British luxury travel, this new cabin is part of the airline’s Airbus A380 retrofit plans, set to take flight in mid-2026.

The updated First Class cabin has been crafted to feel like a modern luxury hotel in the sky, complete with cozy touches and thoughtful British details.

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Designed by top experts from across Great Britain and Ireland—including London, Glasgow, West Yorkshire, Kilkeel, and Dublin—the seat reflects the best of British design and quality.

Features and Comforts
The new First Class seat is ultra-wide at 36.5 inches, with a bed length of 79 inches for ultimate comfort. It includes:

A multi-purpose ottoman and stowable table.
A 32-inch 4K TV screen.
Adjustable mood lighting with modes like “relax,” “dine,” and “cinema.”
A cocooned 60-inch curved wall for privacy while maintaining a spacious feel.

Passengers traveling together can enjoy a shared experience with a sliding divider that creates a lounge-like space. The stowable tables also allow for “buddy dining,” where two people can dine together.

The cabin’s flowing curves, inspired by the iconic Concorde wings, create a welcoming and stylish environment. Additionally, passengers can now wheel their luggage directly into their personal storage space, making settling in easier.

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British Airways carefully considered customer feedback when designing this cabin. The seat includes practical storage and features like a fully rectangular bed for home-like comfort. Every detail, from usability to elegance, has been designed to enhance the travel experience.

British Airways is proud to be the only UK-based European airline offering a First Class product across the Atlantic. british airways premium economy and First Class travelers enjoy exclusive perks such as stylish seats, access to luxury lounges, fast-track security, and the First Wing at Heathrow. The airline ensures a premium experience from booking to landing.

This cabin upgrade is part of British Airways’ £7 billion investment in improving customer experiences. The airline has already introduced over 120 initiatives, including new short-haul seats, free onboard Wi-Fi messaging, and refreshed lounges worldwide.