A routine flight turned into a scene of sheer terror for passengers aboard a TUI Airways Boeing 737 when the aircraft dramatically overshot the runway at Manchester Airport on Tuesday afternoon.
The budget airliner, arriving from Dalaman, Turkey, encountered serious difficulties during its landing approach, ultimately skidding beyond the runway boundaries and coming to an abrupt halt on adjacent grass.
Emergency Evacuation Unfolds
In chaotic scenes captured by eyewitnesses, emergency slides were immediately deployed as airport emergency services scrambled to the scene. Passengers were instructed to evacuate the aircraft immediately, leaving behind their personal belongings in the rush to safety.
One shaken passenger recounted: "We came in to land and it felt quite fast, then there was a massive bang and we skidded. People were screaming and crying. The crew were shouting 'Evacuate! Evacuate!' and we had to use the slides."
Airport Chaos and Response
Manchester Airport confirmed a "full emergency response" was activated following the incident at approximately 1:30 PM. Fire crews and medical teams rushed to the scene as the airport's emergency protocols swung into action.
Airport authorities temporarily suspended operations on the affected runway, causing significant disruption to flight schedules throughout the afternoon. Passengers scheduled to depart from Manchester faced lengthy delays as investigators began examining the scene.
Investigation Launched
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has been notified and is expected to launch a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the runway overshoot. Early reports suggest wet runway conditions may have been a contributing factor, though this remains unconfirmed.
A TUI Airways spokesperson stated: "We can confirm that flight TOM1801 from Dalaman to Manchester exited the runway on landing. Emergency services are in attendance and the aircraft has been evacuated safely. Our team is providing full assistance to passengers."
Fortunately, early reports indicate no serious injuries among the 189 passengers and crew aboard the flight, though several individuals were treated for minor injuries and shock at the scene.
