Brussels, February 6 - On Thursday evening, Scandinavian Airlines flight SK2590, scheduled from Brussels Airport (BRU) to Copenhagen (CPH), experienced a serious aviation incident when the aircraft began its takeoff roll from a taxiway instead of the assigned runway. The SAS flight, operating under clearance for departure from Runway 07R at approximately 21:03 UTC, accelerated along the parallel taxiway rather than proceeding to the correct runway threshold. Flight tracking data indicated the aircraft reached speeds of up to 107 knots, potentially higher in some recordings, before the crew aborted the takeoff and brought the plane to a halt. The jet ultimately came to rest partially off the paved surface in the adjacent grass area, preventing any further movement under its own power.
The incident unfolded without any reported injuries to passengers or crew members on board the SAS service. All individuals were safely evacuated from the aircraft following standard procedures. Airport operations at Brussels Airport continued normally for other flights, though the affected aircraft required assistance to be towed back to a suitable position. Passengers from flight SK2590 were subsequently rebooked onto alternative services to reach their destination in Copenhagen, minimizing overall disruption to travel plans.
An official spokesperson for Scandinavian Airlines confirmed that the airline is fully cooperating with Belgian aviation authorities in the ongoing investigation into the Brussels Airport taxiway incident. Preliminary information points to a misalignment during taxiing, where the crew lined up on the taxiway instead of the runway after receiving takeoff clearance. Such events, though rare, highlight the critical importance of precise navigation, crew coordination, and air traffic control confirmation in complex airport environments like Brussels Airport, one of Europe's busiest hubs.
Aviation safety experts emphasize that incidents involving attempted takeoffs from taxiways underscore the need for robust cross-checks and heightened situational awareness, particularly during night operations or in low-visibility conditions. Authorities are expected to review air traffic communications, cockpit procedures, and airport signage as part of a thorough inquiry. Scandinavian Airlines has reiterated its commitment to safety and will implement any recommended measures arising from the investigation to prevent similar occurrences in future SAS operations.