Empire State Review Team 
FedEx Plane Catches Fire Near Newark Airport
NEW JERSEY – Early Saturday morning, a FedEx aircraft encountered a dangerous situation as it took off near Newark Airport, igniting flames on one of its wings.
Incident Overview
Videos shared across social media platforms captured the harrowing sight of a Boeing 767-3S2F flying while on fire. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff.
Response and Safety Measures
According to a statement from a FedEx spokesperson, the emergency was triggered by a bird strike. “Our crew declared an emergency and returned safely to Newark,” the spokesperson conveyed in an email to FOX Television Stations, expressing gratitude towards the swift actions of the crew and first responders.
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries among the passengers or crew members aboard the flight, which was en route to Indianapolis at the time of the incident.
Wider Context of Aviation Safety Concerns
This event follows several recent aviation incidents that have raised public concern regarding the safety of air travel. Notably, a midair collision in January claimed the lives of 67 individuals near Washington D.C., marking it as a significant disaster. Other recent incidents include:
- A plane crash landing in Toronto that resulted in the aircraft flipping over.
- A fiery crash in Philadelphia.
- An Alaskan crash that killed 10 individuals.
- Two small planes colliding in Arizona.
Additionally, a Southwest Airlines flight recently had to abort a landing in Chicago to avoid a near-collision with another aircraft on the runway.
Expert Opinions and Statistical Insights
Concerns regarding aviation safety have been echoed by various officials, including former President Donald Trump, who attributed the midair collision’s causes to an “obsolete” air traffic control system. He has since advocated for its replacement to enhance safety.
Despite these alarming events, statistical data indicates that commercial air travel remains remarkably safe. The National Safety Council reports that the odds of dying in a vehicular accident are significantly higher—1 in 93—compared to the exceedingly rare occurrences of fatal airplane crashes.
Data from the U.S. Department of Transportation further reinforces this perspective, emphasizing the safety record of U.S. airlines.
Conclusion
The recent FedEx incident near Newark Airport highlights the importance of emergency preparedness in the aviation industry. With no injuries reported and the aircraft safely returning to the runway, the proactive response of the crew serves as a reminder of the effectiveness of aviation safety protocols.
Source: This article incorporates information from a statement provided by FedEx to FOX Television Stations, as well as data and insights from social media, and background reports from The Associated Press.
