Ryanair Flight Incident: 18 Injured After False Fire Alarm in Palma

On July 4, 2025, a Ryanair flight from Palma, Majorca to Manchester was abruptly discontinued after a false fire alarm triggered panic among passengers, resulting in 18 individuals sustaining minor injuries. The incident occurred just after midnight at Palma Airport, where emergency services swiftly responded to reports of a fire warning on the aircraft.

According to Ryanair’s official statement, the flight was preparing for takeoff when a warning light indicating a fire was activated. Passengers were evacuated via inflatable slides, but a number of them, in a state of fear, jumped from the wings of the plane onto the tarmac. Eyewitness accounts describe chaotic scenes as travelers attempted to escape the aircraft, with some reportedly receiving medical attention for ankle sprains and other minor injuries.

Regional emergency response coordinator spokesperson, Dr. Alejandro Ruiz of the Majorcan Health Service, confirmed that 18 people received assistance, with six requiring hospitalization. Three individuals were taken to Clínica Rotger and three to Hospital Quironsalud Palmaplanas. "We received an alert about a fire on a plane on the ground at 00:36 AM today. Four ambulances were dispatched, including two basic life support units and two advanced life support units," Dr. Ruiz stated.

The chaotic evacuation was exacerbated by miscommunication among airport staff. An airport worker was overheard expressing confusion over the emergency exits available on the aircraft as frightened passengers were filmed jumping to safety. Despite the initial panic, most travelers exited the plane in an orderly fashion, according to Ryanair’s account.

In their follow-up communication, Ryanair expressed their apologies for the distress caused, stating, "This flight from Palma to Manchester was discontinued due to a false fire warning light indication. To minimize disruption, we quickly arranged a replacement aircraft that departed Palma at 07:05 AM the same morning."

The incident has raised questions about the emergency protocols in place for airlines and the training provided to cabin crews for handling such emergencies. Dr. Sarah Johnson, Professor of Aviation Safety at the University of Bristol, emphasized the importance of clear communication during emergencies, noting, “Proper training and clear protocols can significantly reduce panic and ensure the safety of all passengers. This incident highlights the need for regular drills and updates on emergency procedures for airline staff.”

While the immediate aftermath of the incident involved minor injuries, the psychological impact on passengers can be long-lasting. Dr. Emily Carter, a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma, commented, “Incidents like this can lead to heightened anxiety around flying. It’s crucial for the airline to offer support services to those affected.”

The events of July 4 serve as a reminder of the critical need for robust safety measures and effective communication in aviation. As the investigation into the false alarm continues, both Ryanair and Palma Airport are likely to face scrutiny regarding their emergency response protocols and passenger safety measures.

In summary, while the swift action of emergency services and the subsequent arrangements made by Ryanair mitigated the situation, the incident raises important considerations for airline safety practices and passenger reassurance moving forward.