A Cathay flight heading to Hong Kong from Kaohsiung remained grounded just before take-off after one of the aircraft's engines reportedly caught fire.

The airline said the CX431 flight was scheduled to depart at 11.20 am on Saturday, but one of its engines encountered technical problems.

Online videos showed that the flight was preparing for take off on the tarmac, when the engine suddenly shot out of flames.

A loud bang was heard, and the aircraft later came to a halt on the runway.

The airline said no passengers or crew were hurt in the incident.

Cathay apologised for causing an inconvenience and said it had arranged other flights for the affected passengers.