Passengers aboard a TUI flight from Manchester to Cyprus were thrown into a state of alarm after a crucial panel on the aircraft's wing was seen violently detaching mid-flight. The terrifying incident, captured on video, shows the large section flapping and eventually tearing away completely.
The Boeing 737-800, operating as flight TOM 3461, was forced to declare an emergency and divert to Dalaman Airport in Turkey for a priority landing. The aircraft landed safely, but the event has raised serious questions about aircraft maintenance and passenger safety.
A Terrifying Sight at 30,000 Feet
One passenger, who filmed the harrowing moment, described the scene as "absolutely petrifying." The video footage shows the panel, known as a wing flap seal, shaking violently before it rips off and disappears into the clouds below. The loud banging noise caused by the loose panel added to the fear and confusion onboard.
Emergency Response and Landing
The flight crew acted swiftly, informing passengers of the technical issue and preparing the cabin for an emergency landing. The pilot expertly executed the landing at Dalaman Airport, where the aircraft was met by emergency services as a precaution. A replacement aircraft was sent to collect the stranded passengers and continue their journey to Cyprus.
TUI and Aviation Authorities Respond
TUI UK issued a statement apologising for the incident and the disruption caused, confirming that safety is their highest priority and that the aircraft would be thoroughly inspected by engineers. The UK's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is likely to be notified, and an investigation into the cause of the panel failure is standard procedure.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the immense forces aircraft endure and the critical importance of rigorous maintenance checks.
