Algeria : whisker averts plane crash near Hassi Messaoud Airport

A plane crash was narrowly avoided on the airport of Hassi Messaoud in southern Algeria 2 days ago following the sudden occurrence of a mechanical breakdown in the tire system of a Boeing 737 aircraft on a flight from Algiers airport to Hassi Messaoud.The pilot was compelled to make the plane hovering over the Hassi Messaoud airport for about 2 hours until 9h 30 pm fearing that a forced landing could cause a disaster on the ground.

After being informed by the crew about the mechanical failure of the plane, the 163 passengers got into a real frenzy and panic fearing that their last day had come.

The plane was the scene of utter distress and desolation and on the ground, the airport authorities mobilised all the personnel and rescue squads in case of an air catastrophe.

However, after getting in touch with the control tower, the pilot decided to lighten the plane by throwing off a lot of kerosene before finally landing safely on the land strip of the airport late into the night.