BREAKING: Belfast airport: Plane crash lands as landing gear collapses whilst 82mph winds batter UK
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Emergency services have rushed to a large airport after an aircraft was forced into a "hard landing" due to a problem with its landing gear. Whilst trying to land at Belfast City Airport, an Aer Lingus regional flight operated by Emerald Airlines saw problems arise due to the strong winds which are battering the UK. On Saturday, a yellow weather warning was put in place which is expected to last until later tonight. As a result, gusts of up to 82mph have hit and people travelling home for Christmas have been affected.
Pictures from the scene show fire crews on the runway helping deal with the incident. It's believed the flight was arriving from Edinburgh when the nose gear collapsed, leaving the four crew members onboard concerned. It's reported the plane was battling winds of around 50mph in the country when it tried to land.
A spokesman for the airport said: "At around 4pm today, Sunday 22 December, an Aer Lingus regional flight, operated by Emerald Airlines, had an incident on landing at Belfast City Airport. All flights to and from the airport have now been cancelled for the rest of the night.
"This was a positioning fight with no passengers but four crew members onboard. The airport’s emergency procedures were enacted. The runway is currently closed and will be for the rest of the day. Passengers are asked to contact their airline.”. Antony Ochieng, also known as Turbinetraveler on X says he has seen footage of the incident, writing: "Dramatic Moments Captured! Incredible shots by Michail Savekin show Aer Lingus Regional ATR 72 (G-CMMK) slamming nose-first onto the runway at Belfast City Airport during strong winds, leading to a nose gear collapse. Sparks flew as the aircraft skidded down the runway. A hard landing for sure!".
