ANZ reinforces training after prolonged evacuation of engine-fire ATR 72

Air New Zealand is reinforcing its flight crew training following a protracted evacuation caused by an engine fire aboard an ATR 72-600 during final approach to Wellington. The incident, which occurred nearly three minutes ago, saw passengers struggle to recognize the threat and resulted in almost double the typical benchmark evacuation time. Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the engine fire warning received at an altitude of 100 feet. Approximately half of the passengers were observed retrieving carry-on luggage during the extended evacuation process. As a result of this event, Air New Zealand will be implementing enhanced procedures for passenger awareness and emergency response protocols.