‘Potential malfunction’: Emergency declared at Avalon Airport over plane malfunction fears

An emergency was declared at Avalon Airport on Wednesday after a plane was redirected over fears of a “gear malfunction”.

Emergency services were called to Avalon Airport on Wednesday. Photo: Supplied

An aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing at Avalon Airport on Wednesday over fears its landing gear had malfunctioned.

Emergency services were on the scene after the Cessna Citation CJ3 was redirected to the airport because of the potential malfunction, but an airport spokeswoman said the plane landed safely.

“In line with standard protocols, an emergency was declared,” the spokeswoman said a statement.

“Emergency services, including police, fire, and ambulance crews, were on-site to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all involved.”

A file image of a Cessna Citation CJ3.

There were no passengers aboard other than a small number of crew, all of whom disembarked without incident.

“Melbourne Avalon Airport extends its gratitude to the flight crew for their professionalism and to emergency responders for their swift and thorough support,” the spokeswoman said.

An Ambulance Victoria spokeswoman confirmed paramedics responded to the emergency call at around 10.15am on Wednesday.

The incident came soon after an Etihad plane bound for Abu Dhabi with close to 300 passengers on-board had to abort its takeoff at Melbourne Airport on Sunday night after two of its wheels exploded.

Etihad Airways flight EY461 had 289 passengers on board when it had to “slam on the emergency brakes” just moments before taking to the air at 6.15pm.

Footage from Melbourne Airport showed multiple fire trucks on the scene as the plane sat on the runway.

An Etihad Airways statement said the flight was aborted to maintain the safety of customers and crew.

Originally published as ‘Potential malfunction’: Emergency declared at Avalon Airport over plane malfunction fears