Collision and Fire on Runway: Japan Airlines Flight Evacuated at Tokyo's Haneda Airport

In a dramatic turn of events, passengers aboard a Japan Airlines (JAL) flight experienced a harrowing escape as their plane erupted in flames following a collision on the runway of Tokyo International Airport, also dubbed as Haneda. The incident, which unfolded on a bustling Tuesday, saw no less than 379 individuals being swiftly evacuated from the aircraft that had originated from New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido.

As the JAL aircraft taxied on Haneda's tarmac, an unexpected collision occurred, speculated to involve a Japan Coast Guard plane based on preliminary reports released by JAL. The intense impact led to a large, smoke-billowing inferno that primarily consumed the area surrounding one of the plane's wings.

The emergency procedures were promptly activated, with passengers captured on local TV footage scrambling down the emergency chutes away from the looming threat. Remarkable scenes showed fire crews subsequently battling the vicious flames with ferocious water streams, but not before the plane suffered extensive damage visible in the aftermath.

Amidst the chaos, authorities confirmed the closure of all runways at the airport, one of Japan's busiest, especially during the surge of New Year holiday travel. While early reports from NHK TV suggested approximately 400 individuals onboard, Japan Airlines later clarified the numbers, confirming the safe evacuation of all 379 passengers and crew.

While the precise dynamics leading up to the accident are yet to be fully unraveled, the Japan Coast Guard has engaged in a thorough investigation. They have been examining reports that hint at a collision with their own aircraft being the trigger for the frightening sequence of events.

Witnesses shared the distressing moments on social media, with one particular tweet from BNO News showing footage post-collision, garnering significant attention while bringing the incident to international light.

As the airport commences recovery operations and investigations continue, those involved in the incident are likely to undergo debriefings and potential counseling, with JAL and aviation authorities keen on understanding the full scope and cause of the accident to prevent future occurrences.