LUCKNOW/MEERUT, May 25 -- A government's chartered aircraft carrying Uttar Pradesh deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak developed a snag when smoke emanated from one side of its engine just after the ignition at Moradabad airport moments before takeoff on Monday evening, officials said.

At the time of the incident, Pathak and members of his team were inside the Beechcraft Super King Air B-200 aircraft. Airport authorities and security personnel responded immediately and the aircraft was stopped before entering the runway. Pathak and his entourage were safely deboarded and shifted to the VIP lounge.

A senior official at Moradabad airport said the aircraft had been readied for departure but was halted midway, ensuring the safety of all pa...