Passengers on an Alaska Airlines flight had a terrifying experience during Tropical Storm Hilary. The plane sustained significant damage during its descent, causing sparks to fly. The incident occurred at Santa Ana’s John Wayne Airport on a rainy and windy night.
The pilots of the Boeing 737-800 were already struggling with strong gusts and heavy rain as they attempted to land. However, when the wheels touched the ground, the left wing of the plane dipped, resulting in sparks and smoke. The intense landing caused alarm among the passengers, with some screaming and crying, including a child onboard.
Sixteen-year-old passenger Abhi Amineni recounted the harrowing experience and mentioned that the aircraft was shaking during the final descent. He also claimed that there was no “brace for impact” warning given before landing.
The damage to the plane’s exterior was evident, particularly on the left turbine, which appeared to have fully touched the runway during the landing. This likely caused the sparks observed during the descent.
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The incident took place during intense weather conditions brought about by Tropical Storm Hilary. The storm led to the closure of LAUSD schools, flight disruptions at various airports, and even the suspension of DoorDash deliveries. It was a challenging day for Southern California residents, with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the risk of flash flooding.
This particular landing incident serves as a reminder for passengers to keep their windows closed during landing. Witnessing the damage and sparks firsthand can be a frightening experience, so it’s best to avoid looking out the windows in such situations.
Flying during severe weather conditions can be nerve-wracking for both passengers and crew. Pilots are highly trained to handle these situations, but sometimes, unexpected events can occur. In this case, the pilots did their best to navigate the challenging weather, but the severity of the storm resulted in a rough landing.
Passengers should always follow safety instructions and remain calm during such incidents. It is crucial to trust the expertise of the pilots and the aircraft’s safety measures. Airlines prioritize the well-being of their passengers and do everything possible to ensure safe arrivals, even in adverse weather conditions.
Post-incident, thorough inspections and repairs are conducted to ensure that the aircraft is fit to fly again. Airlines have stringent maintenance protocols in place to address any damages and maintain the highest safety standards.
In conclusion, the Alaska Airlines flight’s landing during Tropical Storm Hilary was a challenging and unsettling experience for the passengers. The plane sustained notable damage during the descent, resulting in sparks and smoke. The incident highlights the importance of adhering to safety instructions and remaining calm during turbulent landings. Airlines prioritize passenger safety and take necessary measures to address any damages sustained during flights.
