CHARLOTTE- Delta Air Lines (DL) has reported that a Boeing 717 aircraft, operating as Delta Flight 1092, successfully landed at Charlotte Douglas International Airport on Wednesday morning despite its landing gear not being extended.
The incident, although rare, showcased the expertise of Delta’s flight crews in managing unexpected scenarios. With a focus on passenger and crew safety, the plane was brought to a safe stop on the runway.
Delta Boeing 717 Lands Without Gear
Passengers and crew members on board included two pilots, three flight attendants, and 96 individuals in total. Upon landing, the aircraft’s nose gear remained in the “up” position, but this did not compromise the overall safety of the landing.
Delta Air Lines assured the public that there were no reported injuries and emphasized that the welfare of their customers and personnel is of utmost importance.
In coordination with Charlotte airport officials, Delta is currently working on relocating the plane from the runway to ensure normal operations resume promptly. The closed runway is expected to reopen once the aircraft has been successfully moved.
A passenger on the flight shared their account of the incident, stating that the crew alerted them to the landing gear issue and provided safety instructions.
The plane made a low approach, then ascended once again before executing a smooth landing. Despite the unconventional circumstances, the passengers were able to evacuate the aircraft using slides without any injuries reported.
The passenger expressed gratitude towards the crew and pilots for their professionalism and assistance throughout the ordeal.
Official Statement
Passengers planning to fly from Charlotte Douglas International Airport are advised to check their flight status with their respective airlines before arriving at the airport.
Delta Air Lines expressed their apologies to the affected customers for the inconvenience caused.
They assured them that their focus is now on assisting with baggage retrieval and ensuring the safe arrival of passengers at their final destinations.
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Similar Incident
Vilnius Airport in Lithuania experienced a temporary closure of its operations on Wednesday, 21 June, around 16:20 local time, following an incident involving a Brussels Airlines Airbus A320 losing its inner main landing gear wheel.
The aircraft, registered as OO-SNI, lost its left inner main gear while lining up on the departure runway for flight SN2372 bound for Brussels, Belgium.
The incident led to the blockage of the taxiway, compelling several aircraft to divert to alternative airports such as Kaunas, Riga, and Helsinki. Upon learning of the situation, a LOT Polish Airlines flight reversed its course and returned to Warsaw.
According to a passenger onboard, the wheel detached with a sudden explosion, resulting in tire fragments scattering. Initially, passengers were instructed to remain in their seats, but the ground crew promptly arrived, ensuring a safe evacuation for everyone onboard the aircraft.
Passengers were received by ground staff and are scheduled to depart for Belgium on another plane, expected to take off around midnight.
The airport representative stated on social media, “A technical assessment is currently underway, and preparations are being made to remove the aircraft from the taxiway. The runway at Vilnius Airport will remain closed until 21:00 local time.”
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