A fire broke out on a retired Airbus A340 aircraft on display at the Kocaeli Aviation Science Center in Türkiye, causing visible damage to the tail section of the plane. The incident triggered a rapid response from local fire crews and drew concern from visitors and staff at the site.
The aircraft, which serves as a static exhibit at the science center in Kartepe, caught fire in an event that witnesses described as alarming. Video footage circulating on social media showed thick smoke rising from the rear of the wide body jet before flames became visible near the tail.
According to local reports, the fire started in the tail section of the decommissioned A340. Firefighters from the Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality were dispatched to the scene and worked to bring the flames under control. Crews used water and foam to extinguish the blaze, which had already caused visible charring to the upper rear fuselage and vertical stabilizer.
The aircraft, no longer in flying condition, has been used as an educational display where visitors can explore aviation technology and learn about commercial flight. No passengers or crew were on board, as the plane has been permanently grounded and converted into a museum piece.
Initial reports from the scene indicate no serious injuries among visitors or staff at the science center. The extent of the damage to the aircraft remains under assessment, though images from the site show that the tail structure sustained significant fire damage.
{{REC}}
Authorities have not yet released an official statement on the cause of the fire. Investigators are expected to examine the aircraft to determine what triggered the blaze. Possible causes under review may include electrical faults, maintenance related issues, or external factors, though no official finding has been announced.
The Airbus A340 is a long range, four engine wide body jet that was produced by Airbus between 1991 and 2011. The model was widely used by international carriers for long haul routes before many operators retired the type in favor of more fuel efficient twin engine aircraft.
The specific aircraft on display at the Kocaeli Aviation Science Center was previously operated as a commercial passenger jet before being decommissioned and transported to the site for educational use. Static aircraft displays like this one are common at aviation museums around the world, offering the public a close look at commercial airliners that would otherwise be inaccessible.
The Kocaeli Aviation Science Center is located in the Kartepe district of Kocaeli Province in northwestern Türkiye. The facility features aircraft exhibits, flight simulators, and educational programs aimed at students and aviation enthusiasts. The A340 has been one of the main attractions at the center since its installation.
{{REC}}
The center draws visitors from across the region, including school groups and families interested in aviation and space science. Officials at the facility have not yet indicated when the site or the affected exhibit will reopen following the incident.
Firefighters arrived at the scene shortly after the fire was reported and began efforts to contain the flames. Emergency crews focused on preventing the fire from spreading to other parts of the aircraft or nearby structures at the center. Their work brought the situation under control within a relatively short period, according to local accounts.
Police and other emergency personnel also responded to secure the area and manage any visitors who were present when the fire began. The science center was reportedly evacuated as a precaution.
Officials are expected to conduct a full investigation into the cause of the fire. The findings will likely determine whether the aircraft can be restored for continued display or whether the damage is too extensive for repair. Static aircraft displays require ongoing maintenance to preserve their condition, and fire damage can present significant challenges for restoration efforts.
The Kocaeli Aviation Science Center has not yet issued a detailed public statement regarding the future of the A340 exhibit. Updates are expected in the coming days as investigators complete their initial assessment.
For now, the incident stands as a reminder that even grounded aircraft on display require careful maintenance and safety oversight. Museums and educational facilities that house large aircraft must account for risks including electrical systems, fuel residues, and other hazards that can persist even after a plane has been retired from service.
Further details will be provided as authorities release additional information about the cause of the fire and the condition of the aircraft.