LAJES FIELD, Azores (ACCNS) -- The pilot of a civilian Airbus A330 declared an in-flight emergency due to diminished fuel levels and engine problems and diverted here at 6:35 a.m. today, landing on the runway without power.
The unlit aircraft approached Lajes Field at high speeds and at a higher-than-normal altitude, but the pilot was able to safely land the plane, which had approximately 290 passengers on board.
The plane, part of the Air Transat fleet operating from Canada, departed from Toronto and was en route to Lisbon, but experienced system problems over the Atlantic ocean and diverted toward Lajes Field.
“He hit the pavement and bounced along until coming to a stop with about 2,500 feet of runway remaining.”
"plane’s wheels hit the ground and then the entire landing gear burst into flames."
“It was obvious the plane didn’t have any power, because it was completely dark, and it seemed like the pilot glided in and then slammed on the brakes,” he said. Shortly after landing the fire enveloping the wheels and landing gear was extinguished, and the passengers and crew left the aircraft using inflatable chutes."
“Everyone exited the plane quickly and safely,”
Most of the passengers were taken to the civilian airport terminal, but nine were transported to a local medical clinic for minor injuries and symptoms related to shock.
ps I have picture to go with this, just ask and I'll send it. Picture shows damage to runway and on background airplane with deplayed "slides"
