The reports said emergency services responded immediately and all passengers were safely disembarked, with no injuries reported.

However, airline officials told Gulf News the aircraft returned to the gate before departure because of a technical issue and stressed that there was no fire onboard.

“Contrary to some media reports, there was no fire onboard the aircraft. The aircraft returned to stand due to a technical issue,” the airline said in a statement.

What caused the delay

The airline said flight EY343 from Chennai to Abu Dhabi was delayed after the aircraft returned to the gate and passengers were later disembarked.

“Emergency services were activated as a precautionary measure, based on the Chennai International Airport (MAA) safety protocols,” Etihad added.

The carrier said the flight was expected to depart around three hours behind schedule.…