Brake fire forces aborted takeoff of MNA Flight UB-812; all passengers safe

Brake fire forces aborted takeoff of MNA Flight UB-812; all passengers safe
Published 7 May 2025

Myanmar National Airlines (MNA) has issued a statement confirming that an aircraft experienced a fire due to an overheated brake system but was safely brought to a stop, with no injuries reported among passengers or crew. The airline extended its sincere apologies to affected travelers and assured that support was provided to meet their individual needs.

According to the statement, on May 6, 2025, at approximately 18:35, Myanmar National Airlines flight UB-812, operated by a Boeing aircraft (registration XY-ALV), departed from Mandalay bound for Yangon. While accelerating for takeoff on the runway, with 143 passengers on board, the crew detected an abnormal system indication. In response, the captain immediately initiated an aborted takeoff.

During the maneuver, a malfunction in the braking system caused the left-side tires to overheat and catch fire. The flames were promptly extinguished. Despite the incident, the remaining landing gear remained operational, allowing the aircraft to safely stop at the northern end of the runway.

Cabin crew followed standard Safety Operating Procedures, ensuring that all passengers and crew were safely evacuated and transported to the terminal without injury. MNA quickly arranged alternate flights for all affected passengers to ensure timely travel to Yangon.

Myanmar National Airlines is conducting a full and systematic investigation to determine the root cause of the incident and to implement measures to prevent future occurrences.

A passenger on the flight shared his experience on social media, recounting the tense moments onboard:

"The plane was accelerating for takeoff when it suddenly braked hard. We didn’t know what was happening. The pilot tried accelerating again, but then we heard loud metallic noises. The captain gradually regained control and stopped the plane. I told my friend, ‘A tire must have burst.’ It was a moment of realization—truly by the grace of God."