Hovercraft Passengers Evacuated After Engine Fire Warning at Southsea

Hovercraft Passengers Evacuated After Engine Fire Warning at Southsea

Thirty-one passengers were safely evacuated from a Hovertravel hovercraft after smoke was seen coming from its engines as it prepared to depart from Southsea on Wednesday evening.
The Island Flyer was due to operate its regular crossing to Ryde on the Isle of Wight when a fire warning was activated shortly before departure.
The pilot and four crew members immediately carried out emergency safety procedures, safely evacuating all 31 passengers from the vessel.
The pilot also deployed the hovercraft’s onboard engine room fire extinguisher before firefighters arrived at the scene.
A Hovertravel spokesperson said:
“Hovertravel can confirm that a fire warning was activated on Island Flyer as it was preparing to depart from Southsea this evening.
“The pilot and four crew members immediately implemented established safety procedures, evacuating all 31 passengers from the hovercraft safely.
“The pilot deployed the vessel’s engine room fire extinguisher and the fire service is on site.”
Hovertravel has confirmed that services have been cancelled while the incident is investigated. The company said it will provide a further update on Thursday morning.
There have been no reports of any injuries.
The fire service has been approached for further information.

Source: View original post on Facebook

Posted: 2026-06-25T00:43:58+0000