A flight from Corfu, Greece, to Düsseldorf, Germany, was forced to make an emergency landing in Brindisi, Italy, after passengers saw flames coming from the right wing shortly after 8 p.m., according to Bild.

The Boeing 757 was carrying 273 passengers and eight crew members at an altitude of 11,000 meters. The problem emerged about 40 minutes into the flight, leaving passengers shocked and fearful.

Witnesses recalled hearing loud rattling and bangs before flames became visible. Some travelers sent “goodbye texts” to loved ones. Passenger Leah Steininger said, “About 20 minutes later, we got the message that the gearbox had completely failed and that we’d be continuing the flight with just one.”

Despite the panic, most passengers remained calm as the pilot kept them updated. “The passengers stayed composed,” passenger Niklas Gelbhaar shared. “The pilot explained everything.”

Condor Airlines later clarified that passengers were not in real danger. The flames were not caused by an engine fire but by a combustion process outside the chamber, triggered by disrupted airflow. The precautionary landing was made to ensure safety.

The plane touched down in Brindisi around 8:15 p.m., where all passengers disembarked normally. The aircraft then underwent technical checks on site.

However, not all passengers could be accommodated overnight. “Unfortunately, there was insufficient hotel capacity in Brindisi,” the airline admitted. Vouchers, blankets, and open airport shops were provided, and travelers who found their own lodging were promised reimbursement.

Though shaken, passengers praised the crew for their professionalism. The incident, while dramatic, ended without injuries and highlighted how quick action and communication can turn a potentially terrifying situation into a safe outcome.