NASA Research Plane Makes Emergency Belly Landing in Texas
A NASA research plane was forced to make an emergency landing at Ellington Airport in Texas on Tuesday, sliding across the runway on its belly and sending plumes of flame behind it. The dramatic incident was captured on video and posted to social media, showing the plane touching down with a jolt and yellow fire and white smoke bursting from beneath it.
The crew of the NASA WB-57 plane, which is capable of flying at high altitudes of over 63,000 feet, landed safely and are “all safe at this time,” according to a post on NASA’s social media channel. The federal space agency attributed the incident to a “mechanical issue” that will be investigated. The WB-57 has been flying research missions since the 1970s and is an asset for the scientific community, according to NASA’s website.
Details of the Incident
Video footage of the incident shows the plane slowly descending toward the runway before touching down with a jolt, its wings bouncing as flames and smoke erupt from beneath it. The plane then slides steadily down the track, the flames bursting and disappearing in a cloud of smoke. Local news footage from CBS affiliate KHOU-TV shows the plane at a stop, with the cockpit hatch open and fire trucks and emergency responders nearby.
The NASA WB-57 typically carries two crew members – a pilot and a sensor equipment operator – and is used for scientific and atmospheric research missions. The plane’s distinct thin fuselage and high-altitude capabilities make it an ideal asset for researchers. The incident is a reminder of the risks and challenges involved in scientific research and the importance of safety protocols in emergency situations.
Investigation and Aftermath
The cause of the mechanical issue that led to the emergency landing is currently under investigation. NASA has not released further details on the incident, but the agency’s website provides information on the WB-57’s research capabilities and mission history. The incident highlights the importance of regular maintenance and safety checks in preventing such incidents and ensuring the safety of crew members and researchers.
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