Scoot flight delayed after X-ray machine catches fire in gate holdroom at Changi Airport

SINGAPORE: A Scoot flight to Bali was delayed on Tuesday (Aug 6) morning after an X-ray machine caught fire in its gate holdroom at Changi Airport.

In response to queries from CNA, Scoot said on Tuesday afternoon that an X-ray machine in the holdroom for Gate D46 at Terminal 1 started emitting smoke at about 6.40am.

Passengers of Scoot flight TR280 were “promptly evacuated” to another gate’s holdroom, that for Gate D49, Scoot said.

“Affected customers were provided with refreshments,” the airline added.

The flight was originally set to depart at 7.10am, but it eventually took off just after 9am and arrived in Bali at 11.30am, Scoot said.

There is no time difference between Singapore and Bali. 

A video posted on TikTok by user montanaandchris shows smoke billowing from the X-ray machine as it burns. A fire extinguisher then appears to be used to extinguish the blaze.

The video also shows travellers covering their faces as they walk between gates, with smoke filling the air behind them.

A Changi Airport Group spokesperson told CNA that the fire was sparked by an electrical fault.

“The fire was promptly put out by two airport staff,” the spokesperson said, adding that no passengers were injured as a result of the fire.

Scoot apologised for the inconvenience caused by the incident.

“The safety of our customers and crew is our top priority, and we will continue to provide assistance to affected customers where necessary,” it added.