The Max Holte Broussard light aircraft, registered F-GJJM, safely landed at Antwerp Airport, Belgium, around noon. Earlier today, the plane departed Brasschaat airfield (EBBT) but lost its left landing gear during the takeoff.
After the pilot transmitted a distress signal, emergency services prepared Antwerp Airport for an emergency landing. The pilot entered a holding pattern above the city of Antwerp.
As a result, one TUI Airlines Belgium Embraer 195-E2, registered OO-ETB from Ibiza, Spain, diverted to Brussels, Belgium.
Both passengers escaped unharmed after a safe landing. The aircraft was towed to the apron, resulting in a temporary closure of the airport.
Nathan De Valck, CEO of Antwerp Airport, said, “We are extremely relieved that the aircraft landed safely without major damage and that the occupants were unharmed. Thanks to the excellent cooperation with all emergency services and authorities involved, the situation was handled correctly and in accordance with procedures.”